Cycling inspiration John Shiels MBE visits Stadium MK for 92-club Sir Bobby Charlton Foundation fundraiser

A cyclist who is visiting each of England’s Premier League and EFL clubs by pedalling 1,500 miles in aid of the Sir Bobby Charlton Foundation stopped off at Stadium MK this month.

MK Dons Community Trust welcomed John Shiels MBE as part of his unique fundraiser, which is championing the positive role football clubs hold within their communities to help people of all backgrounds become the best version of themselves.

A trustee at the Sir Bobby Charlton Foundation and former CEO of Manchester United Foundation, John’s fundraiser will help provide more children with access to free football, safe spaces to play, and trusted adults to support them.

His latest leg of the tour offered John the opportunity to learn more about MK Dons Community Trust’s work across the city and its surrounds with people of all ages, backgrounds and interests in football.

The charity delivers adult physical activity sessions in care homes, operates multiple inclusion football squads, partners with other local charities to raise awareness and funds to tackle key societal issues and provides holiday camps plus boys and girls development pathways.

Paul Mitchell, CEO of MK Dons Community Trust, said: “John’s challenge is an incredible achievement and a fantastic way of recognising the vital work that football clubs and their community trusts deliver every single day.

“At MK Dons Community Trust, we see first-hand how football can be used as a force for good – creating opportunities, improving lives and providing safe spaces where young people can thrive.

“Sir Bobby Charlton’s legacy is one built on passion, humility and a belief that football can make a real difference. We’re proud to support John’s journey and help raise awareness of the important work being done to give more children the chance to play, learn and grow through football.”

The overwhelming majority of delivery by charitable trusts attached to Premier League and EFL clubs across the UK is done so without government funding.

John plans for information gathered on his tour to support conversations with government and football’s decision-makers around the growing requirement for free and safe spaces where children can play and develop skills attached both on and off the field.

To support John’s challenge, visit www.justgiving.com/campaign/thesbcbeautifulgametour

MK Dons Community Trust wishes John the very best of luck as he continues his incredible journey around the footballing community.