FAMILY and friends of popular rugby player Liam Walsh, who sadly died aged just 29 after taking his own life during lockdown, are gearing up for a marathon charity cycle ride to Glasgow in his memory.
Thirty-five members of WACCO (Warrington Amateur Cycling Club / Organisation) are planning to cover the 220-mile journey over three days setting off on August 24, finishing at Celtic Park.
As a collective, they are a father, a brother, uncles, and friends of the late and greatly missed Liam, who was born and bred in Warrington…but universally popular.
Liam, from Orford, was a well-known face among the town’s rugby community and was fiercely loyal to those he loved, he was vibrant, fun-loving, and a phenomenal sportsperson.
Friend Joe Moore, who is helping organise the event said: “We lost Liam in Spring 2020. Since then, we have looked for a way to help others in a similar position to which Liam found himself. Covid-19 and its global effects prevented us doing something meaningful sooner, but now is the time, and we’re ready.”
Liam played for and coached sides including Rylands, Crosfields, Warrington Wizards and Warrington Knights, as well as a football team Orford FC.
The aim of the event is to help promote exercise and the mental health gains that can be achieved from it and to raise awareness of the importance of mental wellbeing and the support available to those who may need it. Also to strengthen the bond between old and new friends who share a common purpose and belief, while raising as much money as possible for four local charities – Man Talk, Offload , The Shannon Bradshaw Trust and St. Rocco’s Hospice).
After returning from the event there are plans for a charity fund-raising night on Sunday, August 28th with live music, food, raffles and auctions.
The event has already secured some big sponsors including British gas, Today Team and Youngs Roofing & Scaffolding.
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