By Jonathan White
Nantwich Town Football Club superfan Paul Dean has once again gone the distance for a great cause – quite literally. On Tuesday 19th August 2025, Paul successfully completed an incredible 46.6-mile run from the Swansway Stadium in Nantwich to Sporting Khalsa FC’s Aspray Arena in Willenhall, West Midlands.
Paul, 44, a father and teaching assistant at Weaver Primary School, set off in the morning and arrived after just nine hours on his feet – in time to cheer on his beloved Nantwich Town in their Northern Premier League West Division clash that evening.
His route saw him join the Shropshire Union Canal towpath in Nantwich, which he followed for most of the journey before leaving it near Wolverhampton Racecourse, just a few miles short of the finish line.
Paul’s marathon efforts were all in aid of Cancer Research UK, the world-leading cancer charity dedicated to pioneering research, prevention and treatment. In a lovely gesture, Sporting Khalsa FC welcomed him onto the pitch ahead of kick-off, where he posed for photos with both sets of players.
This is far from Paul’s first fundraising feat. Earlier this year, he ran a full marathon around the Weaver Primary School track, and last year he astounded locals by completing four marathons in just 24 hours – covering an astonishing 106 miles. His past challenges have included 24-hour runs and completing 10 marathons in 10 days, raising thousands of pounds for cancer charities along the way.
Speaking after his latest challenge, Paul said:
“It was tough at times, but thinking about the difference Cancer Research UK makes kept me going. The support I’ve had from family, friends, the club, and people who’ve donated has been amazing. If my miles can help save lives, then every step was worth it.”
Donations can still be made via Paul’s JustGiving page: www.justgiving.com/page/runningpeeps6