A fundraising initiative is being promoted by Banbury United FC, encouraging individuals to participate in a commemorative event honoring a devoted club volunteer.

The event, arranged by Katharine House Hospice to recognize Simon Pearce, has been called a tribute to a long-standing supporter of the organization.

Participants must collectively travel over 40,000 miles within a 30-day period, which represents the distance of circling the planet, with the digital journey beginning and ending at the hospice facility.

The activity encompasses walking, running, cycling, swimming, and even gardening, with each participant’s distance contributing to the overall goal.

The event runs throughout June this year.

Simon Pearce, whose death was communicated on Thursday, March 12, began volunteering as a ball boy during childhood and remained an unwavering supporter of both the men’s and women’s squads throughout his years.

The football club initially shared news of his passing on Thursday, March 12, referring to him as a pillar of the organization.

He also represented the club as its mascot during the 1990s and continued supporting the team at matches both at home and away.

A statement released by Banbury United FC following his passing read: “Simon was a dedicated and long-serving member of the Banbury United family.

“Simon’s passion and commitment to the club will always be remembered.

“Our thoughts are with his friends, family and all those who knew him.”

Simon received care from Katharine House Hospice during his final months, and the club aims to express gratitude through this commemoration.

Individuals can either join the Banbury United FC team or make a direct contribution toward the £50 fundraising goal per participant.

The registration fee is £20 until midnight on Thursday, April 30.

Registrations submitted after this date will cost £30.

Participants register through an online form, selecting ‘Banbury United FC’ as their team when prompted.

Those who wish to meet the £50 fundraising target independently can do so through the same online form.

Participants will receive access to the Pace Around the World platform starting May 26 and receive a Katharine House T-shirt, available for pickup at the hospice from June 1.

No fitness tracking device is required, as distances and activities can be logged manually.

Those unable to take part are encouraged to make donations through the team’s JustGiving page, with an initial goal of £500.

All money raised will go to Katharine House Hospice in Simon’s memory.

Katharine House Hospice requires over £5.9 million annually to operate, with fundraising activities supporting approximately two-thirds of this amount.

For additional information or inquiries, reach out to Claire at clairedumbreck@banburyunitedfc.co.uk.