What a marathon! 24-hour football match played for Zac
A 24-hour football marathon was the latest fundraiser for the appeal to send four-year-old Zac Oliver to America for cancer treatment.
About 250 players took the the pitch at Broseley between noon on Friday and noon on Saturday, playing hour-long, five-aside matches.
During some of the coldest weather of the autumn so far players of all ages - and all abilities - kept the soccer going throughout the 24 hours.
Zac's father, Mark Garbett, played in teams from 4am until 6am on Saturday morning.
"We were overwhelmed by the turnout," he said.
"There were a lot of youth teams that took part and also some veteran players who made up teams."
Among those who went along were 10 members of the Broseley Joggers running club who fielded two teams.
"Not one of them had ever played football before but they had the time of their lives playing against each other. None of them really knew what they were doing but they certainly enjoyed it."
"Thank you to everyone who played or stood on the touchline supporting."
A massive fundraising appeal has raised more than £500,000 in just weeks so that Zac can fly to America for cancer treatment that could save his life.
The money will be used to pay for CAR-T therapy at Philadelphia Children’s Hospital. Zac is likely to spend several weeks in the US.
The people of Shropshire rose to the challenge of raising the £500,000, taking part in a Wear Red for Zac Day and a Telford Park ZacFest. Schools and workplaces have made collections and the youngster was guest of honour at AFC Telford United.
Although the £500,000 target has been reached, family and friends are continuing to fundraise to cover other medical expenses and return trips to the US for follow up appointments.
