David goes from Red Devil to daredevil

DAREDEVILS . . . former Manchester United player David May (right) with Christie patient Sean Littlewood

A FORMER Manchester United defender is returning to Old Trafford as a daredevil to raise vital cash for The Christie.

Oldham-born ex-Manchester United defender David May will take part in the first ever 620ft zip slide at the Theatre of Dreams for the charity.

The adrenalin-fuelled event takes place on Sunday, March 27, and adventurous fund-raisers wanting to take part must have a head for heights as participants will slide from the top of the West Stand to the East Stand at speeds of up to 25mph.

The former footballer will be taking part alongside fellow daredevil and young cancer patient Sean Littlewood (24) who was treated at The Christie’s award-winning teenage cancer unit for leukaemia last year and is now in remission. Rochdale-based May (40), who began his playing days at Boundary Park Juniors, was part of United’s treble-winning squad of 1999.

He made more than 100 appearances for the club between 1994 and 2003 and also played for Blackburn Rovers.

On retiring from the game he turned a hobby into a business with a wine importing company.

May said: “As a player I was fortunate enough to experience the buzz and excitement of walking out on to the pitch at Old Trafford on many occasions.

“But I can only imagine the feeling as you step off from the West Stand and glide across this famous stadium.

“I am proud to be taking part for The Christie which helps cancer patients, like Sean, every day. I want to urge everyone to sign up and join me.”

Sean, from Leyland near Preston, said: “I am absolutely terrified of heights but I like pushing myself and as a massive Manchester United fan this is one challenge I definitely want to complete.

“Most of all I want to do something for The Christie and the teenage cancer unit where I was treated for six months because I received such fantastic care.”

As well as its Withington base, Christie has a £17 million radiotherapy unit on the Royal Oldham Hospital site.

The charity is one of Manchester United’s chosen charity partners, raising more than £300,000 since 2007.

Christie head of sporting events Jenny Haskey said: “This zip slide is a great opportunity to see Old Trafford from a different perspective.

“All money raised will help provide important extra rehabilitation for our young cancer patients helping them regain their confidence and adjust to life after a diagnosis of cancer.

“Registration is now open and costs £20 per person but places are limited.

“All we ask in return is that you pledge to raise a minimum sponsorship of £190.

“All Christie zip sliders will receive a full sponsorship pack including further information about the day.”

For more details call Christies on 0161-446 3400 or email events@christies.org .