Football-mad youngster goes on the run for Hartlepool United

Leo Allen, five, completed two laps of the Victoria Park pitch to raise funds for the club's fundraising effort.

Donations have been coming in from across the world over the last two weeks after it was revealed Pools needed to raise £200,000 to stave off the threat of administration.

St Helen's Primary School pupil Leo wanted to do his bit, and his efforts at the Vic raised another £650 for the cause.

Mum Natasha Rumble works in the catering cabins inside the ground on matchdays.

She said: "Everyone is rallying round to help the club and Leo just wanted to do his bit.

"He saw the club's mascot, H'Angus the Monkey, collecting money in Morrison's last week and asked why he was doing it, and when I explained what was happening, he wanted to do whatever he could to help.

"Initially we planned a sponsored bike ride, but then this idea came to us.

"He said he really enjoyed it and didn't find it difficult, although he did seem a bit tired towards the end!"

Leo was joined at Victoria Park by twin sister Lillie-Mae, with the event organised by Pools food and beverages manager Alan Cockrill.

Natasha, meanwhile, will be working at the ground tomorrow for the sell-out fixture with Wrexham, and along with many other members of staff, she will be doing so free of charge.

Leo regularly goes to Pools games with his dad, Peter Allen, and granddad, David King.

Natasha, of Telford Close, has told of her pride that her son has done his bit.

She added: "It's absolutely brilliant that he wanted to get involved.

"We're really pleased with the amount he raised and hopefully it can help.

"The response was fantastic."