Birch To Run 'No Matter What'

And despite fears that the ‘platinum fundraiser’ would miss out for the first time since the event began way back in 1981 through injury, Birch is as determined as ever to complete the exhausting event in the name of charity. 

Birch revealed to LCFC.com: “It’s been a tough couple of days because I injured my hamstring as I was taking part in the Colour Blast Dash for the Laura Centre in Victoria Park. 

“I was helping to raise some money but also getting in a bit of training ahead of the big day on Saturday, so it was unfortunate, but because I’ve been out there 34 years, even if I have to crawl around the pitch, I’ll do it. 

“I’ve even had offers from fans to use their mobility scooters since the injury! But I can assure everyone that no matter what, may I’ll be out there with the rest on the runners on Saturday. Nothing will stop me. 

“So for everyone coming down to support the run, don’t panic! I’ll still be there, and this year we’re opening the gates at 10am in time for the run to start at 10.15am. 

“As always, the main idea is to raise money for all these wonderful charities on what will be an extra special day for the Club. 

“It’s a massive occasion. We’re back up in the Premier League after 10 years, and it’s about that, but before the match, the run can help us think about other people less fortunate. 

“City fans have raised over £1million for over 100 charities over the years. If everyone brings £1 along, we can crack the record from last year. If you do miss a collector, please make sure you donate through your phone or online. 

“And don’t forget, I want to see everyone either in fancy dress or in City blue. It’s going to be a wonderful day with everything that the first team have done this season, so let’s enjoy it!” 

This season, the five partner charities being supported by the LCFC Foxes Foundation are: Breast Cancer Care, The Laura Centre, Macmillan Cancer Support, Samaritans Leicester and the LCFC Defibrillator Appeal. 

In previous years, Birch has been joined in his challenge by the likes of Leicester boxer Rendall Munroe, Coronation Street actor David Neilson, former City players Steve Walsh and Muzzy Izzet and players from the Club’s Academy and women’s teams. 

Players from both matchday squads have also traditionally completed a lap as part of their pre-match preparations, adding to what is always a fantastic occasion on Filbert Way. 

To make your contribution to the LCFC Foxes Foundation, you can bring a donation to the Doncaster Rovers game on Saturday 3 May and donate it to support the Birch as he embarks on his run. 

Alternatively, to DONATE NOW, go to www.justgiving.com/Birchs-34th-Run or text LCFC33 £1 (or £2, £3, £4, £5 or £10) to 70070. Texts are charged at your mobile phone operator's standard rate. The charity will receive 100% of your donation. You must be 16 or over and please ask the bill payer's permission. 

For full terms and conditions and more information, please visit . 

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