A North Wales charity football team is swapping football boots for running shoes to raise money for children with life-threatening conditions.

Strong Minds FC will take on a gruelling 251-kilometre relay from Cardiff to Conwy on Friday, June 26, in support of TÅ· Gobaith Children’s Hospice.

The team’s Castle 2 Castle Challenge will see eight runners and four support crew cover the 156-mile route in continuous five-kilometre relay stages, starting at Cardiff Castle and finishing at Conwy Castle.

Strong Minds FC’s Craig Wilkinson says the team is excited for the challenge and has been training together every Thursday evening in preparation.

The men’s charity football team uses sport to support mental health, providing a welcoming environment for men of all ages while raising money for good causes in the community.

Ahead of the event, Craig and teammate John visited TÅ· Gobaith to see first-hand the difference the hospice makes to local families.

Craig said they were “blown away” by the facilities and dedication of staff, describing the hospice as a place filled with warmth, care and compassion.

He added that every step taken and every pound raised will help provide vital support for children and families when they need it most.

The challenge has already attracted backing from a number of local businesses, including Vestas, Specsavers, Co-op, Enterprise and Lime Leasing.

TÅ· Gobaith fundraiser Nikki Sullivan praised the team’s efforts, saying what they’re doing is incredible alongside the work they already carry out supporting mental health.

She said hospice staff will be cheering them on every step of the way.

Anyone wishing to support the challenge can sponsor Strong Minds FC and follow their progress on Facebook by searching for “Strong Minds FC”.