A CHILDREN’S football manager who suffers from Parkinson’s disease has helped raise more than £7,500 to fund the trip of a lifetime to Barcelona.

Club secretary Tony Mitchell, who was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease two years ago, will take 24 youngsters from the Winsford Over 3 Athletic JFC U12s on the trip.

The side will play two matches against sides from the Catalan region.

They will also visit one of the most iconic stadiums in the world where Lionel Messi, largely considered one of the greatest players ever, plies his trade – Barcelona’s Nou Camp.

Despite having to take a backseat from day-to-day physical activity due to his condition, Tony has been instrumental in helping to raise more than £7,500 towards the cost of the tour.

Tony, who has been involved grassroots football for more than 24 years, said: “We’ve got a brilliant bunch of players at the club and this is a dream come true for them.

“I am restricted due to my illness, but I aim to do all I can to help young kids from all backgrounds in the community.

“I am fortunate enough to have met and made friends with some superb people over the years, and their support has been instrumental in helping get the Barcelona trip off the ground.

“It has been a long-time ambition to organise a trip to Barcelona, so I’m delighted that it’s finally coming to fruition.”

Winsford Over 3 FC, which will celebrate its 25th Anniversary in 2016, merged with the newly created Winsford Athletic JFC in April 2013.

The team has received grants and donations from the likes of Leighton Hospital Prostate Cancer Support Group, Winsford Town Council, as well as donations from various businesses.

The trip has also received financial support from the Friends of Muir (FoM), a charitable trust set up by Muir Group Housing.

Tony added: “This has been possible thanks to the brilliant people we have at this club.

“Not only will this trip see them grow and develop as footballers, but as young lads as well.”