FANS of rival football teams aim to show their support in a creative way this weekend for a charity that supports children with brain cancer.

A fixture between 1874 Northwich and Runcorn Linnets on Saturday will be used to promote awareness of Brain Tumour Research.

The gesture has been inspired by goalkeeper Greg Hall, who has worn a blue bandana during matches in solidarity with a girl he teaches as part of his day job.

Supporters at St Luke’s Barton Stadium will be able to don the striking headwear too in return for a donation to an organisation that funds research into finding a cure.

“People thought I was making a fashion statement at first,” said the 1874 Northwich custodian.

“It’s not, and I’ve promised to put on a bandana in every game until the end of the season.

“Each time I do, I put £10 in a jar when I go back to work.”

Northwich Guardian:

Goalkeeper Greg Hall has worn a blue bandana during 1874 Northwich matches in solidarity with a pupil at a school where he works. Picture: M Darlington Photography

Gracie McCall, aged five, is a pupil at St Cuthbert’s School in Withington where Hall is employed as a teaching assistant.

She was diagnosed three years ago with an Atypical Teratoid Rhabdoid Tumour (AT/RT), a rare condition that affects only handful of children each year.

Following treatment, which included surgery and radiotherapy, she was given the all-clear by doctors at the Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital.

However a routine exam in October 2015 located new growths on her brain and spine.

Hall’s response attracted the attention of Linnets followers, and a collection has been arranged for Saturday’s encounter.

A handful of 1874 supporters bought a bandana before last weekend’s fixture against Padiham while Steve Wilkes, the Storks’ manager, did the same after his side’s 2-1 win.