‘Inspirational young man’ does ice bucket challenge to support his footballing hero and raise money for MND

An Ipswich Town fan took part in the ice bucket challenge to raise money for a charity connected to one of his footballing heroes.

Harrison Mayhew-Kemp, 21, from Ardleigh, decided he wanted to do something on behalf of Marcus Stewart.

Stewart, an ITFC legend who helped the tractor boys get to the Premier League back in 2000, was diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease (MND) in September 2022.

Since then, the Bristol born great has worked tirelessly to raise awareness of MND whilst also taking part in a number of charitable activities on behalf of the Darby Rimmer MND Foundation.

So, inspired by his hero, Harrison – One Sixth Form College – decided to take part in the ice bucket challenge.

He did so in front of around 100 staff and students and was also joined by Peter Over, an ITFC ambassador, as well as representatives from the Ipswich Town Foundation.

Mr Over was given the duty of tipping the bucket of ice over Harrison. Mr Over said: “Harrison is an inspirational young man - who touches the hearts of all involved with ITFC and The Foundation. He is respected friend and loved by us all and is very much a massive part of The Ipswich Town Family.”

After the challenge Harrison – who is on a media course at One Sixth Form College said: “It (doing the challenge) was incredible. I’m lost for words for the people who turned out to to support me. I’m also lost for words because the water was so cold.”

He added: “At the end of the day this (MND) is a horrible disease and people like my hero Marcus Stewart – what he is going through is terrible. He was a sensational player - and I wish him all the comfort in the world. Doing my bit for the MND charity is the least I can do.”

Mike Kemp – Harrison’s father said: “I’m really proud of him.”

Sally Fuller is an admin co-ordinator at One Sixth Form College. Sally said: “Harrison is a force of nature and we are so proud that he chose to study with us. He positively inspires every one, every day.” So far, Harris has raised over £300.00. People can still donate here: DONATE – Darby Rimmer MND Foundation 

The risk of someone being diagnosed with MND is 1 in 300 people according to mindovermnd.co.uk