Man to attempt 50-hour charity gaming marathon

A man has challenged himself to a 50-hour gaming marathon to raise funds for a hospice that cared for a close friend.

Rick Holloway, from Worcester, has completed eight similar challenges, all in memory of Mike Grubb, and raised more than £4,300 over five years for St Richard's Hospice.

His latest challenge saw him play Championship Manager non-stop for 50 hours in November with a second identical 50-hour marathon set to start at 10:00 GMT on 3 April, finishing at 12:00 on 5 April.

He said: "It means such a lot to raise funds for the hospice, as it helps me bring back memories of my good friend."

Holloway added: "It feels like a duty to help such a worthwhile charity by doing something I love to do.

"Strangely enough, the time does fly by during the challenges as you are so immersed into trying to reach the promised land with each team.

"I also have a good supply of coffee from my wife Karen and receive great support from so many."

His upcoming challenge will see him take charge of Worcestershire non-league side Pershore Town following a vote on X.

The real-life club chairman Jason Neville said: "It's bonkers, isn't it? But it's great fun. The important thing is the money he's raising for St Richard's Hospice."

He added: "Can you imagine him taking little old Pershore Town to the Premier League or having a run in the FA Cup, it would be brilliant.

"If Rick can take us to the Premier League I'd be delighted."

Pershore Town said it would give away four free tickets to its last home game and a signed shirt to those who donate to Holloway's fundraiser.

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