Jill Scott begins epic 388-mile charity challenge for Sport Relief | OneFootball

Jill Scott, the celebrated former Lioness footballer, has embarked on an ambitious five-day, 388-mile cycling and marathon challenge for Sport Relief.

The journey began at London's iconic Wembley Stadium, where she famously secured the 2022 Euros victory with the Lionesses, and will culminate at Sunderland's Stadium of Light in the North East.

Kicking off on Monday morning, Scott's initial leg involves a 112-mile bike ride to Villa Park. Day two sees a 99-mile cycle to Everton's Hill Dickinson Stadium, followed by a 38-mile run into Manchester on day three.

Thursday features a “Tour de France-style” 111-mile cycle towards the North East, before concluding on Friday, June 12, with a 28-mile marathon finish at the Stadium of Light.

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Former Lioness Jill Scott set off from Wembley Stadium at the start of a five day cycle and marathon challenge for Sport Relief (PA)

Along the route, Scott will visit various football stadiums and community hubs, joined by former teammates and other familiar faces.

Speaking previously to the Press Association, Scott expressed her honour at being asked to undertake the challenge, stating she is "100 per cent committed" to its completion.

She highlighted the disparity in opportunities for young people: "I was so lucky that I was offered safe spaces to play football and I was offered these incredible teachers and coaches who I could trust and who could help me, but there’s so many young people that don’t get those opportunities."

Scott added: "A lot of young people say they feel lonely, they feel disconnected. That’s definitely something that Sport Relief really do help with – giving kids a sense of belonging, a purpose."

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Scott's journey will take her from Wembley Stadium in London to Sunderland's Stadium of Light (PA)

She urged public support, saying: "I would just urge people, if you are in a position to help, please make sure you do, because without those green spaces, without those youth clubs, I would never have gone on to fulfil my dreams of playing for England."