WINSFORD United hope to help a national cancer charity raise more than £2,000 after announcing a new partnership, writes Alex Bysouth.

A representative from Macmillan will be at Blues’ fixture with tenants 1874 Northwich at Barton Stadium on Easter Monday to mark the start of a campaign.

The agreement also includes the charity hosting a two-day tournament for juniors in May.

“We’re expecting a big crowd when we play 1874, so it’s a good time to try,” said Bob Astles, Winsford’s secretary.

“They’ll be putting up banners and stalls at the ground, and we’re happy to help them in any way we can."

He told the Guardian that Prostate Cancer UK had held a successful awareness day when 1874 Northwich hosted Runcorn Linnets earlier this season.

Blues hope to do the same with Macmillan.

Astles added: “The club’s committee met at the end of last year to come up with ways in which we could do something.

“Our main aim is to attract the attention of schools in Winsford.

“We hope to help explain the crucial importance of Macmillan’s work, as well as raising money for the charity.”

If the football competition for juniors, which will be sponsored by ASDA, is successful then it could become an annual event.

Macmillan is not the only good cause that counts on the club’s backing.

Clowns in the Sky, which provides support for children with brain tumours and their families, is another charity Blues have been helping this season.

“We always try to do our bit,” said Astles.

“Clowns in the Sky is one that’s ongoing through the season.

“They raise funds to provide hospitals that can help make children’s lives a little bit easier.”

The tournament for juniors is provisionally scheduled to be hosted at Winsford United on the weekend of May 23 and 24.