Sky Sports’ Jeff Stelling stopped off at Shrewsbury Town this week, as he continues his ‘March for Men’ to raise money for Prostate Cancer UK.
The broadcasting legend has embarked on a gruelling 400 mile journey over 15 days, which sees him travel from Exeter City’s St James’ Park, all the way to St James’ Park of Newcastle as he looks to raise £500,00.
Dubbed the ‘quirkiest’ day of the challenge, Jeff and the 29 who joined him on the day started at the home of the Aggborough Pie, before boarding a mid-walk steam train link-up after the first five miles.
The group then braved the downpour that followed to walk the remaining 21 miles into Shrewsbury, rounding off a walking total of 26 miles.
It was straight to the physio room for Jeff, who was in good spirits despite the weather!
One thing that gets him through the toughest times of the challenge, he says, is remembering who he is doing it for.
“We’ve got a guy called Kevin Webber, who’s got terminal prostate cancer,” said Jeff. “He’s doing the walk and always sends a message out, ‘when you’re feeling rough and really down, just think of the reason you’re doing this.
“You’re doing it for those who suffer from prostate cancer, you’re doing it for Kevin’s kids as well.
“And that’s a real motivation, you know.
“The effort that some people put in, is absolutely phenomenal and quite humbling, really.
Having done a similar challenge last year, where Jeff walked 10 marathons in 10 days, raising £420,000, he insists that he is finding this year easier than last.
“Believe it or not, the more you do the easier it becomes. Some of the guys who are just doing one find it harder because I’ve become accustomed to it.
“I’m full of admiration for them, carrying those bloody great big ruck sacks, it was a phenomenal effort.
“It has felt easier to be honest, I’m not sure why! The first four days last year, I was in pieces! Every morning I got up and thought ‘I can’t do this’.
“This year, I get up and think, ‘I don’t want to do this’, but I know I can and will.”
Despite the adverse weather, Jeff was still able to appreciate the sights of Shropshire on route, and was particularly impressed with the unique journey with Severn Valley Railway.
“It was a stunning trip, the scenery was unbelievable,” he said. “Severn Valley Railway was absolutely beautiful as well, brilliantly run by the way.
“I said to the guys outside, it was a terrible day but a wonderful walk.
“We were on the train for what, 55 minutes, I don’t think it rained at all.
“As soon as we got off the heavens opened up, of course!
“But hey, that’s the way of the world.”
People can still join Jeff on the rest of his challenge, and he had a message for those who are thinking of signing up.
“It’s just a fantastic cause, but I would say you’ll have a brilliant time, you’ll have a brilliant day.
“You’ll ache like hell the next day, but you’ll have a brilliant time amongst fantastic people.
“Anyone who wants to join up, do it. And we’ll have a fun time together.”
You can sign up to Jeff’s March, or sponsor him at https://prostatecanceruk.org/get-involved/march-for-men/