Magpies star guiding blind fan on charity run

Two of Chorley’s most dedicated and loyal servants from off and on the field are running together for charity next Sunday.

Blind Magpies fan Dave Powell is teaming up with midfield dynamo Jamie Vermiglio in a bid to raise money for charities Derian House and Guide Dogs for the Blind by completing a gruelling half marathon together on 28 October.

The pair's fundraising got off to a good start on Saturday at Victory Park when Powell raised £119.77 with a bucket collection during the Mapies 5-1 Evo-Stik NPL Premier Division win over Frickley Athletic.

Powell, pictured alongside his running partner, said: "We are doing the Preston Guild half marathon and Jamie has kindly agreed to be my guide for the run. Hopefully we’ll be able to complete the course. I’ve had a history of injuries recently so hopefully I’ll be fit enough to finish."

Vermiglio joked: "I’m just hoping I can get through 90 minutes. But on a serious note Dave has been asking me for three years to do this so I thought I’d help him out. We’ll hopefully do it in the quickest time possible for two good causes."

To donate and show your support for Chorley's fundraising duo visit: www.justgiving.com/teams/runningscared2012