Sports fans and communities across the North of England will come together for March of the Day III, a six-day walking challenge covering 340 miles and visiting 44 football and rugby league grounds.

The third annual March of the Day challenge will be the biggest yet, following three previous successful fundraising events since 2023, which have collectively raised over £400,000 for MND charities.

From Monday 1st June to Saturday 6th June 2026, participants will walk from Liverpool to Stockport County, then onward to the Rob Burrow Centre for Motor Neurone Disease in Leeds. Along the way, walkers will pay tribute to sporting heroes affected by MND, including the late Rob Burrow CBE, Stephen Darby, and Marcus Stewart.

Previous events have seen over 800 people get involved to raise funds and awareness, including sporting stars and people living with MND. This year it is hoped that more than 1,000 people will participate, including 100 ex footballers and rugby league players, as the biggest fundraiser yet hopes to raise a quarter of a million pounds.

Funds raised will support Leeds Hospitals Charity for the Rob Burrow Centre for MND and the Darby Rimmer MND Foundation, helping to provide care, fund research, and give hope to families affected by the devastating condition.

Stephen Darby says:

“March Of the Day events have received a huge amount of support. They have brought together people, fans and the MND community. These events will raise awareness of MND as well as raise vital funds for grants and research. The response has been incredible and it’s sure to be a very special time for everyone taking part.

“The support and generosity from everyone involved is overwhelming. When those who are diagnosed with MND see people showing their support through events like this one, it gives us the strength to keep fighting daily. Together we can make a positive impact on MND and hopefully one day we will see a cure for this disease.”

The organisers, Redwood Events, are encouraging the public to join in the challenge, either as an open walker alongside sporting legends in an official t-shirt or come together with colleagues or friends as part of a team.

There are also opportunities for businesses to show their support by sponsoring a member of the squad with their logo on the back of their t-shirt or sponsor a section of the route.

Paul Watkins, Director of Fundraising at Leeds Hospitals Charity says,

“March of the Day III is set to be a truly special event bringing together the football and rugby league community together, united by one shared goal, to support people living with MND and their families.

 “We’re honoured that the organisers have chosen to support the Rob Burrow Centre for Motor Neurone Disease, alongside the Darby Rimmer Foundation. Now the centre is open, money raised will help us continue to support the service for years to come, from holistic therapies to advancements in technology and groundbreaking research.

“I am looking forward to cheering on the team as they reach the finish line at the centre!”

To get involved and find out more, visit: https://www.redwoodevents.co.uk/register-for-march-of-the-day-iii/