FORMER Cherries groundsman Andy Press is closing in on his fundraising goal after completing his challenge walk.

Diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease, Press decided to trek between Bournemouth and Boscombe piers and back in order to raise money for Macmillan Caring Locally, a local charity that helps provide support to "those who are suffering from cancer and other life limiting illnesses where no cure is expected, and to provide help and support for the whole family.”

Macmillan Caring Locally also support the Lindsay, the care home where Andy currently lives.

With a target of £10,000 in mind, members of the Cherries community have already raised £8,280 at the time of writing.

Donations are still open, with those wanting to contribute able to do so by visiting the following link: https://www.justgiving.com/page/andy-press-pier-to-pier-challenge

Andy was joined by crowds of people for the walk, including former Cherries chairman and current club ambassador Jeff Mostyn. 

Prior to starting the challenge, Andy shared a speech and performed his song 'Remember'.

“It was a fantastic day to do the walk, the sun was shining, and I was surrounded by some of my closest family members, friends and carers,” Andy began.

“I can’t believe we have already raised over £8,000; I really hope I can get to my £10,000 target.

“Thank you to everyone who has already donated and shown their support, including my friends and colleagues at AFC Bournemouth who have been with me every step of the way.

“I am also really grateful to the staff at The Lindsay for helping me organise such a great day.

"Coping with this diagnosis hasn’t been easy, but the team has been fabulous and I’m so thankful to have their continued care.”

Claudia Carvell, Home Manager at The Lindsay Bupa Care Home, shared: “It was wonderful that so many people came to support Andy on his pier-to-pier challenge.

“It was a fabulous day and there wasn’t a dry eye amongst us when he sang his song.

“We are really grateful to everybody who has donated so far and we’re so happy to be able to support Andy in reaching his goals.”