ON THE MOVE: A few of the students who intend to tackle to stadium walk in support of assistance dogs
Eighty determined students from Sheffield United Community College are preparing to walk 30 miles across South Yorkshire’s football stadiums to raise funds for Support Dogs, a Sheffield-based charity that trains assistance dogs for autistic children, and adults with epilepsy and physical disabilities.
The marathon 12-hour walk starts at Doncaster Rovers’ Eco-Power Stadium before moving on to Rotherham United’s AESSEAL New York Stadium, Sheffield Wednesday’s Hillsborough, and finally finishing at Sheffield United’s Bramall Lane. Along the route, the students will visit Support Dogs’ training centres in Brightside and Hillsborough, where they’ll be welcomed by staff and, of course, the dogs themselves.
The challenge takes place on Thursday, October 23, beginning at 7am in Doncaster.
The students, aged 16 to 19, aim to beat last year’s fundraising total of £3,000, which was raised for a different charity.
Ryan Collins, head of education and training at Sheffield United Community Foundation, said: “This challenge tests determination and teamwork while giving our students the chance to raise vital funds for an incredible cause.
“It also helps develop important life skills like fundraising and community engagement.
“Every penny raised will directly support Support Dogs’ life-changing work. We’re thrilled some of their amazing dogs will join us along the route to inspire and raise awareness.”
Tess Thompson, community fundraising manager at Support Dogs, added:
“We’re absolutely thrilled that Sheffield United Community College is supporting us and wish the students every success on their walk.
“Their efforts will help us continue to change lives through our incredible assistance dogs.”
To support the students, visit:
www.justgiving.com/page/sheffield-united-community-college-2025
For more on Support Dogs, visit www.supportdogs.org.uk or call 0114 2617800.
Follow Sheffield United Community College’s social media channels for live updates on the walk.
Location: Sheffield, South Yorkshire