PLAYERS from Kells ARLFC are swapping their rugby boots for walking boots to raise cash for a supermarket worker recovering from a devastating accident.

The rugby club based in Whitehaven has organised a fundraising walk on the Coledale Horseshoe to support Sharon Graham, who was left with lifechanging injuries following a fall at home.

Sharon was the community champion for Morrisons supermarket in Whitehaven and has been described as a ‘huge part of the community’ who went ‘above and beyond’ to help others.

Sharon’s son, Jordan plays for Kells ARLFC when on leave from the army and her grandson, Archer plays for the U10s team.

The club wanted to support Sharon in her recovery and will complete the nine and a half walk on Saturday. A JustGiving page set up by the club has already topped £1,500.

Peter Smith, head coach at Kells ARLFC, said: “If we can help in any way, that would be great. There was an idea for some of the lads to do something that would be a good teambuilding exercise. It will be a good trek for us.”

A number of fundraising efforts have been made to support Sharon, including a crowdfunding page created by Jordan Mattinson which raised over £18,000. Chris Young, a runner from Cleator Moor, also ran a Christmas Day marathon to raise money for her.

Sharon’s friends and colleagues at Morrisons have also been keen to do what they can to help and number of events are being organised. A fundraising afternoon tea is being held at the Sunnyhill pub in Whitehaven this Saturday.

All are welcome to join the fundraising walk with Kells ARLFC. They will be meeting at the Kells club at 7am on Saturday, March 3 before setting off to Coledale.

The walking route includes the distinctive Grisedale Pike, Hopegill Head, Crag Hill, Sail, and Outerside.

To donate, go to: www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/KELLSARLFC