MIDDLEWICH Town junior footballers poured their hearts into a ride to Wembley that has raised funds beyond their expectations.

Players in the under 13s Reds team cycled a distance of 183 miles non-stop in relay format for four hours on excercise bikes, the equivalent of pedalling from Middlewich Town FC to Wembley Stadium.

The fundraiser was intended to secure money for a much needed defibrillator for the team, but all involved have been astounded by the generosity shown and more than £1600 has now been raised.

Team manager Steve Moss said: “The team have raised enough money towards the purchase of three defibrillators which will be available at all our games for players, parents and supporters.

Northwich Guardian:

"They should be very proud of the amount they have raised and the dedication they have shown.”

As well as having a JustGiving page, organisers arranged for two donation buckets and a debit card machine to be available at the club's ground when the first team recently faced Lostock Gralam in front of a big crowd at the Mid Cheshire FA Cup Final.

That final was being played while the boys were watching on and cycling.

Reds officials stated that supporters of both teams made some very generous donations.

Team captain George said: "I'm really proud of us as a team.

"It got tough going towards the end but we smashed it! All the way to Wembley."

Donations are still being taken at justgiving.com/crowdfunding/middlewich-town-u13reds

With four games still to play in their campaign, Reds are sixth in Mid Cheshire Youth Football League Under 13s Division Two.

Last time out, they won 1-0 at Congleton Town Juniors and could climb higher up the table if they win the games they have in hand.

They are due to host Nantwich Town Under 12s Greens, who are currently one place below them, on Sunday.

The Witches first team drew 2-2 with champions elect FC St Helens at the weekend and will complete their Cheshire League Premier Division campaign at home to Whaley Bridge Athletic on Saturday.

They will finish the season between sixth and eighth on the ladder.