A GROUP of brave individuals took part in a marathon 24-hour five-a-side football match at Redlands to raise money for the Three Ells Trust.

Starting at midday on Saturday, the players battled exhaustion, injuries, and a lack of rest to eventually hobble towards the final whistle, scoring a combined 921 goals at midday the following day.

With the sides battling throughout the night, the Reds managed to pull in front of the Blues at around 3am and never looked back, eventually winning 484 to the Blues 437.

Rich Narramore of the Blue team finished with 95 goals to his name, which put him top of the scoring charts despite the loss.

The initial goal for the event was to raise £500, but this figure is now standing at just under £4,500 following the amazing response from the community.

A spokesperson for the event said: “The Three Ells Trust does fantastic work in the county and has consistently helped to make a difference to lives of Children suffering from cancer, leukaemia or other life-limiting illnesses.”

Lloyd Naerger of the Three Ells Trust, who organised and participated in the event, would like to thank all of those who came down to support across the two days.

He said: “I would also like to thank WowzOnCanvas for printing all of the shirts, all of the players who gave everything they had over the 24 hours and to all of those who have donated so far to make the event such a success.”

The donation page for the event is still open until Friday, June 24, so if you would like to donate please head to virginmoneygiving.com/team/Naerger