The Prostate United Story

In 2018, after losing his grandad, Stephen Gilpin and his mate, former Rotherham United colleague Ross Burbeary, dreamed up Prostate United. They challenged themselves to run and cycle every day for a month. What started as a two-man adventure has grown to involve hundreds of staff from over 60 clubs including Manchester United, Newcastle United, Portsmouth and Luton Town.

Last year, fans took part for the first time, with over 700 participants answering the call up and helping raise over £500,000 since the challenge began.

"Prostate United has become much bigger than just a charity challenge; it’s become a community. We’re trying to bring football - from grassroots level up to the Premier League - together, with one aim of raising as much money as we can for the amazing Prostate Cancer UK.

“The money that we’re raising is going to improve prostate cancer research and the support and help that men living with the disease are receiving.” - Ross & Stephen, Prostate United Founders.

From diagnosis to determination: Tommy’s story

Man City fan Tommy Hayden, 53, first became aware of prostate cancer after spotting the ‘Man of Men’ badge worn by Jeff Stelling on Soccer Saturday. That moment led him to book a PSA test—and in June 2024, he was diagnosed with prostate cancer.

Now, a year after surgery, Tommy is back taking on Prostate United, the UK’s biggest grassroots football fundraiser, where fans and club staff walk, run or cycle every day in October.

“Doing Prostate United has been really rewarding for me. It connected me with other football fans and gave me the inspiration to get fit again,” says Tommy. “Representing Manchester City and seeing the club flying high on the leaderboard was a big sense of pride too.”

Taking on the challenge just 12 months after surgery is a milestone Tommy never imagined—proof of how far he’s come, and what’s possible after a diagnosis.

Join Tommy and the Prostate United squad this October. Raise vital awareness and funds to diagnose men sooner and save lives.

Stay connected

We’re all one team, united. While this is a virtual challenge, we want everyone to feel connected with the Prostate United community. Join us on Facebook, X, WhatsApp & Strava to see how others are doing, share your progress, and keep up to date with all things Prostate United. There’s nothing better than cheering others on, and no greater motivator than being cheered on!