Man begins 100-mile run for meningitis charity

A Worcestershire man has set off on a 100-mile run to Anfield, home of Liverpool FC, to raise awareness for meningitis B.

Shaun McEntee, who only completed his first half marathon last year, started his journey at Kidderminster Harriers FC's Aggborough Stadium on Wednesday morning, aiming to raise £5,000 for Meningitis Now.

It comes after the death of family friend and Liverpool fan Aaron Mills, who died from meningitis in January in Kidderminster during a break from his studies at Liverpool John Moores University.

"I'll get through one way or another, McEntee said, adding: "There's too much support, there's too many people that I'd be letting down if I [don't]."

Although babies have routinely been vaccinated against meningitis B for more than a decade, Aaron's age group missed out.

Following Aaron's death, his parents Anthony and Deniz campaigned for a catch-up vaccine - and in June, the government announced a one-off programme for one million young people.

During his journey, McEntee will stop at the University of Wolverhampton, Harper Adams University in Shropshire, Reaseheath College & University Centre in Nantwich and the University of Chester to raise awareness.

"University students are among the most at risk group and, obviously, Aaron was a university student," he said.

"I hope to raise as much awareness as possible to the most vulnerable people.

"The biggest message is that there is a vaccine available and that meningitis B is different to meningitis A, C, Y, W.

"Please make sure you're vaccinated and save your own life," he added.

McEntee admitted he found the level of support "a bit overwhelming" and had only been expecting his "nearest and dearest" to show up to see him off.

"It's not an option to not complete it," he added.

His mum, Hazel McEntee, said she was "in awe" of her son for taking on the challenge.

"He's just incredible, I don't know what to say, I feel quite emotional at the moment...I can't even describe how proud I already am.

"He's extremely nervous, but having got here and seen all the people waiting to see him off, I think that's eased his nerves."

McEntee will run for five days, aiming to arrive at Anfield on Sunday.

Follow BBC Hereford & Worcester on BBC Sounds, Facebook, X and Instagram.