Malvern Town FC are keeping fit and raising money this summer.

The football club is hoping to raise £2,500 to support the area's most vulnerable people by taking on a crossbar challenge.

Over the course of the summer Malvern Town are getting the community together with the aim of hitting the crossbar 500 times.

The challenge kicked off on Sunday July 25 and they are almost a tenth of the way there, hitting 45 on the first day.

Bryan Craven, community development officer at the club, said: “This is something that we have been planning for some time.

“The situation with Covid has provided us with obstacles to overcome, but I am pleased to say that we now have the challenge underway.”

Inspired by the efforts of England star Marcus Rashford, the club spoke with several charities and decided that money would go to enabling local food banks to supply vulnerable people with fuel as well food.

Mr Craven added: “The aim is to raise funds to help people within the local area fuel their homes during the winter months, be that the elderly, vulnerable or families who attend the foodbank.

“Not being able to heat your home through the cold months can have a big impact on both physical and mental health; it effects your ability to be your best self and we want to play some part in helping to change that and take people in our community away from the poverty line.”

It is expected that around 12,000 attempts will be required to reach the magic number.

Anyone wanting to get involved can do so by either donating or filming your own effort and sending it to #MTFCcommunitycrossbarchallenge.

There are plans for a celebration day at HDanywhere stadium once the 450 mark is reached.

Those aged 14 and over must attempt the shot from the 18-yard line while younger participants can move closer to the goal line.

The challenge is being supported by the local police community support officers, Malvern Cube, Action for Children and Freedom Leisure and we thank them for their backing.

Donations can be made here.