Young supporter congratulated by Sir Alex

Monday 14 March 2022 16:15

Manchester United fan, Ben Dickinson, completed his charity walk from Northern Ireland to Old Trafford on Saturday afternoon and was congratulated by Sir Alex Ferguson ahead of the match against Tottenham Hotspur.

Half an hour before kick-off, Ben met Sir Alex and was presented with a signed Manchester United shirt.

Inspired by United winger Marcus Rashford, the 10-year-old began his ‘Miles for Meals’ walk from Inver Park, home of Larne Football Club, on 3 March and concluded his challenge on Sir Matt Busby Way at 14:30 GMT on Saturday.

Ben’s aim was to walk 50 miles to raise money to provide 50,000 meals for kids through food-poverty charity Fareshare.

Ben was gifted a signed Manchester United shirt by Sir Alex Ferguson on Saturday prior to kick-off.

Incredibly, he has exceeded this target and is aiming for more.

Jane Gregg, daughter of Northern Ireland legend Harry Gregg, who played for Manchester United from 1957 to 1966, accompanied Ben on the final leg of his walk.

In March 2021, Ben raised over £7,200 for the Northern Ireland Children’s Hospice by running 26 miles in 26 days and was surprised by Marcus Rashford in a feature on Sky Sports News.

Ben's efforts have been backed by ex-United defender, and fellow countryman, Jonny Evans, who has donated to the cause.

For every £1 raised, Fareshare can provide four meals for those in need. You can track Ben’s fundraising achievements and donate on his JustGiving page.

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