The football and rugby community came together to support former Huddersfield Town star Marcus Stewart in his March of the Day fundraiser for MND research.

The 175-mile walk started at Valley Parade in Bradford on Friday morning and will end at Liverpool’s Anfield stadium on Sunday, having stopped off at 15 other grounds on the way.

The walkers called in at the John Smith’s Stadium on Friday teatime as part of their march across West Yorkshire.

The event aims to raise £30,000 for the Darby Rimmer MND Foundation, set up by former Bradford City and Liverpool player Stephen Darby, who was diagnosed with the condition in 2018.

Marcus, who was diagnosed in September 2022, is taking part in the walk. His condition means he can’t grip properly with his left hand meaning everyday tasks such as tying his shoelaces have become almost impossible.

Marcus said: “It’s hard to put into words what it’s like to be involved in the MND community. We all support each other.”

Apart from the footballing community, both codes of rugby have supported the walk. Former rugby league hero Rob Burrow, who has done so much to raise awareness, was at Valley Parade with his wife Lindsey while his best mate Kevin Sinfield sent a video message of support.

Marcus’s two sons Kian and Finlay both play for Huddersfield RUFC and teams of walkers from the club joined the Huddersfield leg diverting off to finish at Lockwood Park.

Huddersfield RUFC have raised around £2,000 so far. To donate click HERE.

Scroll through our gallery of images below by: Huddersfield Hub photographer SEAN DOYLE