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Curzon defender to run 100km in seven days for NHS

Curzon Ashton defender Andy Halls is set to take on a big challenge in aid of NHS Charities Together.

The 27-year-old, who made his debut in 2009 for Stockport County in a League One fixture against Leeds United, has challenged himself to run 100km in seven days to raise funds for the charity, which is a membership organisation representing, supporting and championing NHS Charities. It has since been confirmed that he will be joined on the runs by his friend Scott Leather.

Andy joined Curzon last summer with a wealth of experience, having made almost 300 appearances in the Football League and National League with Chester, Macclesfield Town and Guiseley. He has also represented the England C squad - the team that represents England at non-league level.

Reflecting on his first season with the Nash, Andy told Reporter Sport: “The results have been disappointing and it’s impossible to enjoy losing football matches, but overall I’ve enjoyed my first season. 

“Mark (Bradshaw) and everyone at the club are Curzon people and have the club at heart, which is great to see and it’s nice to be a part of that.”

Andy believes with Bradshaw at the helm, combined with a few additions to the squad, Curzon can kick on next season in what will mark their sixth consecutive stint at this level. “He maybe an inexperienced manager at the level but he had a great playing career and worked his way all the way through the ranks at Curzon so he’s a perfect fit for the job in my eyes” he said.

 “If we can sign one or two players from this level and keep the majority together, I think next season can be a very successful one with Mark in charge.”

Like all clubs up and down the country - particularly at non-league level - Curzon are without a revenue stream at the moment. And the uncertainty surrounding wages is a cause for concern for some players - especially for those who don’t have a full-time job. Andy said: “I’m sure many players in the non-league circuit will be having it hard just like most teams are too. I haven’t seen the lads since the week of the last game so it’s been a while but we’ve have had regular contact from the club which has been great.

“Personally, football is a secondary income so I can get by but I am sure there are lads up and down the country that live off their football wage and that’s where the problems arise. I hope everyone can get through these difficult times positively.”

Andy said he has no intention of moving anywhere else and is happy to stay at the club. "I've really enjoyed being close to home this year and on a whole happy with my first year at the club, so as long the club is financially stable and has a competitive budget for the league, I see myself here for a long time."

Andy has so far raised £1,655 towards a £2,000 target. You can donate here: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/andy-hallspt?utm_campaign=mypages&utm_medium=tweetfeed&utm_source=twitter

Picture by @biddleofnowhere

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