A footy fan has reclaimed a world record by completing his fundraising football ground tour.

Ed Wood, 51, completed his test of watching matches at all 92 Premier and Football League grounds, along with visiting English-based Scottish side Berwick Rangers, in just 189 days, to break the previous record which stood at 237 days.

He received his official Guinness World Record certificate at his 93rd and final ground, Spotland, where he saw hosts Rochdale play Charlton Athletic in League One last Saturday.

He visited Bradford City’s Valley Parade home last month, as he notched up his 83rd game, where he stood by the Bradford City Memorial outside the ground and met Bantams manager Stuart McCall.

He has already raised £6,810 for Prostate Cancer UK and hopes to reach at least £10,000.

Mr Wood, of Pool-in-Wharfedale, started his fundraising football feat on August 14 last year with Bristol Rovers’ clash against Oxford United. Since then he has racked up 22,000 miles on the nation’s roads, covering matches at clubs as far flung as Plymouth Argyle and Hartlepool.

He set out with a £10,000 budget but hailed the generosity of football fans, who gave him complimentary match tickets.

Mr Wood, who is a Derby County fan, reclaimed the world record from Ken Farris, who set it during the 1994/95 season, after he had originally set it in 1992.

Mr Wood, who took a four-month break from his job with Lloyds Bank in Halifax during the challenge, said: “It was tough but part of me didn’t want it to end. It was fun but it was also an intense experience.

“Becoming a world record holder again after all these years is a great honour and something that has given me some incredible memories.

“It helped that all of the fixtures were spread out, mainly due to television coverage, so it was easier to complete the challenge.

“At one stage I did ten games in nine days and I also did four games in 48 hours. It was a challenge. I could not have done the tour any quicker. I would love someone to try it next season and have as much fun as I have had.

“I have had help from lots of friends and from just as many strangers up and down the country - I have been touched by their willingness to help me out with tickets, travel, talking to clubs and lots more.

“I’m not sure I’ll miss regular 300-mile round trips on a Tuesday night, but it won’t be long until I am back at the football.

“To achieve the record and raise money for Prostate Cancer UK has been hugely rewarding.”

He revealed his favourite stadium was Newport County’s Rodney Parade, where he got to wear the mascot’s outfit and said he would like to return to the”quirky” ground.

Text PROS93 £2 to 70070 to make a donation.

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