Meet the Burnley football fan who is going the 'extra mile' to boost the support of Blackburn Rovers!

But Olly Cutler has a heartfelt reason for putting club allegiances to one side as he embarks on a special sponsored walk.

On Monday (September 6th), Olly will set off on Alfred Wainwright's famous 'Coast to Coast' walk in memory of former work colleague Rachel Tucker, who died unexpectedly last December.

He is looking to raise funds for local schools, with the express intention of purchasing tickets for pupils to attend Rovers games throughout this season.

"As a season-ticket holder at Ewood Park, Rachel was a passionate Rovers supporter and her friends and family believe this to be a fitting tribute in her memory," Olly said.

"As a Clarets fan, I am sure the irony isn't lost on those who know me, but I look back on my Monday morning banter with Rachel with great fondness."

To help distribute the tickets, Olly has enlisted the support of Rovers' Community Trust, who have well-established links with all schools in the Blackburn with Darwen area through their provision of daytime activities and after-school educational projects.

As well as getting to watch a Premier League game at Ewood Park, the chosen children will also receive two hours of specialist matchday coaching from the Trust's community staff.

"Olly's effort is going to provide a lot of pleasure for a lot of young people and we are thrilled to be able to offer our help," said Duncan Kinloch, head of strategy and planning at Blackburn Rovers Community Trust.

"We wish him all the best and hope he achieves maximum sponsorship."

Olly, who is an operations manager at HML in Padiham, hopes to complete the 200-mile walk in 11 days.

He will start on the west coast at St Bees in Cumbria, will cross three national parks and is expected to arrive at Robin Hood's Bay on the east coast on September 17th.

He is hoping to raise £2,000 - equating to £10 per mile - and anyone who would like to support him in his efforts should visit http://c2c.awardspace.co.uk.

Picture Caption:

Burnley fan Olly (right) receives a handful of tickets from Rovers' local favourite David Dunn, watched by Duncan Kinloch and Jamie Hopwood from the Blackburn Rovers Community Trust.