MND battler Andy plans pier-to-pier run to boost Christchurch Mac unit

A FORMER Cherries groundsman battling Motor Neurone Disease is looking for community support as he undertakes a pier-to-pier walk this Sunday raising money for Christchurch-based charity Macmillan Caring Locally.

Andy Press (58) was working as a groundsman at AFC Bournemouth when he was unexpectedly diagnosed with an aggressive form of the illness.

His disease has progressed rapidly and he is now receiving care at The Lindsay Bupa care home at Poole, supported by Macmillan Caring Locally who provide specialist support and hospice care.

Andy expressed his desire to give something back to the charity and The Lindsay team organised the three mile pier-to-pier walk that Andy will complete in his electric wheelchair, surrounded by friends and family.

Those joining the walk should check in at the marquee at Bournemouth Pier Approach by 1.30pm on Sunday before the 2pm start to Boscombe Pier and returning to Bournemouth Approach.

Andy has asked for as many people as possible to come along, support the charity and enjoy the day and said: “I am really looking forward to it. My aim is to create a legacy for my life and, in the process, raise as much as I possibly can for Macmillan Caring Locally – which has provided such amazing care to me and many others in the area.

“Please come along and support me or simply donate here to help raise funds for this invaluable charity. By donating, you will be helping ‘The Mac Unit’ to continue providing support to people with many types of cancers as well as those with MND.”

Claudia Carvell, home manager at The Lindsay, said: “Andy is an incredible person and spearheading this challenge is a testament to his passion and drive."