Birch Smashes Annual Run Record

- The Leicester City Club Ambassador’s 36th-straight run took place ahead of Leicester City lifting the Premier League trophy for the first time in their history back in May 

- Funds raised will go directly to the LCFC Foxes Foundation and their chosen charities for the 2015/16 campaign 

Leicester City Club Ambassador Alan ‘The Birch’ Birchenall smashed the record for funds raised following his 36th Annual Run at the end of May. 

Thanks to Birch’s incredible efforts and the amazing generosity of the Blue Army, a total of £58,265.21 was raised – an astonishing amount that will go directly to the LCFC Foxes Foundation and their chosen charities for the 2015/16 campaign. 

Birch’s 36th Annual Run took place before Leicester City were officially crowned 2015/16 Premier League champions at their final home game of the season against Everton on 7 May at King Power Stadium. 

It was a phenomenal effort from Birch, 70, who battled through 90 minutes of blood, sweat and tears to complete his run for a stunning 36th-consecutive year. 

Leicester City Chief Executive Susan Whelan said:“The grand total is another example of Birch’s unwavering commitment to our great Football Club and the local charities that we proudly support each year. 

“Birch’s Annual Run would not be possible without the overwhelming generosity of the Club’s fans, who continue to make a significant contribution to better the lives of people in their local community. 

“The total raised from Birch’s 36th Annual Run is befitting of the occasion that followed it – being officially named Premier League champions for the first time in the Club’s long, rich history – and I would like to thank every single person that donated, supported and took part in the run.” 

The funds raised will go towards the LCFC Foxes Foundation’s ‘Second Million’ campaign, which supports a number of Leicester-based charities. The 2015/16 chosen charities include , , , and the . 

Birch said:“On what was the most historic day in our Club’s history, with Wes and the boys raising the Premier League trophy, it was great to add to that fantastic occasion. 

“The Annual Run is something that our Football Club has been doing over the past 36 years, helping big and small charities across the county in the process. 

“Throughout the summer, I’ve been asked what the total would be for this year’s run, or in my case a wobble! I expected it to be a tremendous effort as always from our City fans, who year after year have supported all the charities. 

“But there was no way I would ever think that the total this year would be over £58,000. It absolutely blew me away. In one way it’s a surprise and in another way it isn’t – the generosity shown by everybody has been unbelievable. 

“I would like to personally thank everyone that donated. These charities will certainly benefit from the final pool raised this season. 

“The backing that we got from the owners, all the staff, players and of course the fans has been second to none – it wouldn’t have been possible without you all.” 

For more information on the LCFC Foxes Foundation, .