A LIVERSEDGE footballer is about to embark on a huge challenge tonight to raise money for the family of his former coach who sadly passed away at the age of 46.

Alfie Raw will be running four miles every four hours for 48 hours (4x4x48) in memory of much-loved mentor Simon Emery.

Simon joined the Clayborn-based outfit in 2014 to work under current boss Jonathan Rimmington.

When he suddenly died last November, it came as a massive shock to everybody involved with the football club.

Alfie had known Simon since the age of seven due to his association with local team Rothwell Juniors.

The 22-year-old said: "He had always played a part in my life. He helped me with the transition from Huddersfield Town's academy to men’s football.

"It was a huge shock because nobody expected it. At that time, it was good to get together with the football lads and perform on the pitch in his memory. He was such a top bloke, we just wanted to do well for him.

"If you were struggling with anything or needed advice, he would always be there to put an arm around your shoulder and talk to you on a friendly basis.

"His family (wife Jeanette, and young sons Jordan and Tyler) are also involved in the club. Jeanette does the food after the games. So, we have all just pulled together."

Alfie was inspired to take on 4x4x48 by American ultra-marathon runner David Goggins. The former US Navy SEAL created the mammoth task and took part in it with all his followers earlier this month.

"It is not only a running challenge, but a mental challenge as well," Alfie added.

"I read David's book a couple of months ago and have kept up to speed with what he has been doing since. I thought I could do that.

"When Simon passed away, a few lads at Liversedge were thinking of doing something in memory of him. I thought if I am doing this anyway, I may as well raise some money for his family at the same time.

"I have been doing a lot of running since the gyms closed. I think that side of it will be alright, I will just struggle with the lack of sleep.

"It is meant to rain this weekend, but I will get through it. I am planning on doing a run, get back to have a bite to eat or maybe a shower or a power nap before the next one.

"I have had a few clubs get in contact. It just shows the football community, especially in the Northern Counties League and Yorkshire, want to support me."

Alfie begins the challenge at 8pm. You can donate to Simon's family by going to @Liversedge_FC where the club have tweeted a link to the Go Fund Me page.