Rothwell boys' inspirational efforts for charity

Two football-mad Rothwell youngsters ran their socks off to raise money for charities close to their heart - as well as cheering their team-mates up.

Charlie Harris (11) and Harry Dunbar (12), were desperately missing playing football for FC Aztec and wanted to raise funds to buy new tops for their team after a tough few months.

And they also picked two charities to split the cash between with Charlie picking Group B Strep Support, who raise awareness of the life-threatening infection which has affected his cousin since birth, and Harry, who is partially deaf, supporting the National Deaf Children's Society who support deaf children and their families.

The inseparable Montsaye Academy pupils initially wanted to run a marathon - but eventually settled on running two half-marathons around Rushton, Desborough and Rothwell a few days apart.

They have been training since January, often running 10km or 15km to keep up their fitness.

Supported by dads Chris Harris (40) and Chris Dunbar (36), they completed their first half-marathon last Sunday in two hours and 45 minutes, finishing in Rothwell's Market Square as they were cheered over the finishing line.

And on Wednesday the pair, who also play for Kettering Town's academy, completed their second in two hours and 51 minutes.

Charlie's dad Chris said: "For them to be able to do that at their age is a massive achievement.

"We are all very proud of them."

The boys initially set themselves a fundraising target of £500, but smashed it to raise more than three times' that amount.

So far they have raised more than £1,600. To donate to their cause, click here.

Chris added: "Their eyes lit up every time money came in and it really inspired them.

"It will help the charities so much."