SAFC cup hero signs up for challenge walk

Sunderland AFC's 1973 FA Cup winner Richie Pitt will be swapping his football boots for hiking boots as he takes on a 20km walk to raise money for Foundation of Light. The former Black Cat will join charity supporters for the Foundation's first Windy Gyle Challenge across the beautiful Cheviot Hills in Northumberland. Taking place on Sunday 15th July, the route will start at Barrowburn taking walkers up towards Pennine Way to the summit of Windy Gyle, enjoying spectacular panoramic views before returning via Uswayford and Middle Hill. And Richie, who made 140 appearances for Sunderland AFC during his seven-year stay on Wearside, is urging Black Cats fans to sign up and take part.

Being a local lad, I’ve always been a great supporter of Foundation of Light and the amazing work they do in the local community. I like to keep active and when I heard about the Windy Gyle Walk I was more than happy to get involved. It's going to be a challenge to complete it and I’ve already been getting some training in. Hopefully we get a lot of fans and walkers join us and raise a lot of money for a fantastic charity.

Richie Pitt, Sunderland AFC FA Cup winner

Jemma Garrett, Foundation of Light's Events Manager, added: "Following the huge success of our Hadrian's Wall Walk we are excited to host the Windy Gyle Challenge. "We're delighted a club legend such as Richie has kindly offered his time to support the Foundation and take part. "We'd also like to thank North East Walk Guides for their help in organising the event and the route which will be both challenging and rewarding for our walkers." Fundraisers are asked to pay a registration fee of £20 with a fundraising pledge of £100. For more information about the walk view the Frequently Asked Questions at the Windy Gyle Challenge page.