Football star Marcus Stewart urges public to back Midlands-based MND charity ahead of October gala
Former Premier League footballer Marcus Stewart has spoken out about the importance of public support for motor neurone disease charities like The Mel Evans MBE Foundation as he prepares to join their fundraising gala in Birmingham this October.
The Masked Entertainer fundraising dinner, which takes place on Saturday, October 18 at Edgbaston Stadium, will be a star-studded evening featuring famous faces like Coronation Street’s Daniel Brocklebank and Peter Ash, former England cricketer Phil Tufnell, TV icon Christopher Biggins, and actress Amanda Barrie, as well as Marcus himself.
Former striker Marcus, who was diagnosed with MND in 2022, has become one of the sporting world’s most high-profile advocates for MND awareness after an illustrious career playing for leading clubs including Ipswich Town, where he was the Premier League’s second highest scorer in the 2000-2001 season, as well as Bristol Rovers and Sunderland.
Since his diagnosis, Marcus has taken part in several fundraising events alongside fellow MND sufferers; former footballer Stephen Darby and ex-rugby player Ed Slater.
His support for The Mel Evans MBE Foundation came about after meeting bowls champion Mel’s partner on and off the bowling green, Lynn Pritchatt, who founded the charity in Mel’s honour.
He explains: “The work Lynn does is absolutely incredible. She’s fantastic at what she does and has been instrumental in raising public awareness of MND, as well as organising charity events.
“We really need the public to get behind the gala in October, and I hope as many people as possible will attend as events like this are vital to our fundraising efforts.”
The Mel Evans MBE Foundation is run by volunteers who have lost loved ones to MND. The charity works tirelessly to raise awareness and fund vital research and support for those affected by the disease.
Speaking about about the challenges of living with MND, Marcus said: “The last two months have been quite tough. I’ve had to adapt, and my left hand is almost unusable now, with my right arm going the same way.
“I’m really grateful for the support I have from my wife, mum and friends, but I often think about people who don’t have that network. It’s so important that funds raised go towards helping families with things like wheelchairs and stairlifts, as well as our ultimate aim of finding a cure.”
Through his work to highlight MND, Marcus aims to continue the important legacy of other sports stars: “People like Mel Evans, Rob Burrow and Doddie Weir have left a legacy, and it’s up to us to carry that baton and keep promoting awareness. Without people with a profile, it’s very hard to get the message out there.”
Reflecting on the support he has received from the football community, Marcus said: “The response has been brilliant, especially from the clubs I’ve played for. The football world is getting closer, but there’s still more to do. The more fans and the public can get behind us, the better. We need more people speaking out about MND.”
He urged the public to support the Mel Evans fundraising gala: “It’s very important, not just because it’s a great cause, but it will be a good night too - something different and a night to remember. Lynn is full of passion and wants everyone there to share that passion. I’m looking forward to seeing who turns up and who’s behind the masks!”
Tickets for the Masked Entertainer fundraising dinner are available now via TicketTailor, with ticket options including premium seating, a drinks reception with celebrity guests and a souvenir gift.
For more information about the charity or to enquire about sponsorship packages, visit melevansfoundation.org.uk.
