100-mile run in memory of Aaron Mills to stop in Chester
By Dherran Titherington 12th Aug 2026
A 100-mile charity run in memory of an 18-year-old who died from meningitis is coming to Chester.
Aaron Mills died from meningitis earlier this year after recently starting a Football Science degree at Liverpool John Moores University.
Organised by Aaron's father Anthony Mills, family friend Shaun McEntee will run from Aggborough Stadium in Kidderminster to Anfield in Liverpool over five days, raising money for Meningitis Now and awareness of bacterial meningitis.
The run will stop at several universities along the route, including the University of Chester, as Aaron's family continues its campaign to raise awareness of the disease among young people.
Anthony said: "First-year students are at risk and we wanted to visit universities along the route to make some noise and inform students of the dangers of meningitis.
"Aaron's story was influential in the recent government decision to vaccinate all 18-year-olds heading to university with a MenB vaccine.
"Following an emotional meeting with Minister Sharon Hodgson, we wanted this challenge to continue that conversation and help protect other families from experiencing the same loss."
Shaun is due to arrive at the University of Chester's Exton Park campus at around 3pm on Saturday 19 September.
Aaron was a lifelong Liverpool FC supporter who played, coached and refereed football and hoped to work in the professional game.
The challenge will begin at Aggborough Stadium, home of Kidderminster Harriers, the club Aaron supported.
Following his death, the club paid tribute with a standing ovation in the 18th minute of a match and presented Aaron's friends with a signed shirt bearing the words "AARON 18".
The run will finish at Anfield on Sunday 20 September.
Shaun, who is the son-in-law of Aaron's godfather, said he was determined to honour Aaron's memory.
He said: "I want my kids to grow up just like Aaron. My main goal is to raise awareness of the awful disease that took an amazing young man from a perfect family. It shouldn't happen to anyone.
"Taking on this challenge is my way of honouring Aaron and helping ensure other families do not have to go through the same heartbreak."
Shaun has never completed an endurance challenge of this scale before but has been training with three to four runs each week alongside gym-based strength work.
Along the way, he has received support from universities connected to the route, including specialist training advice and research opportunities.
Anthony said: "I am in full support of all the fundraising events and tributes held in Aaron's honour because they keep his memory alive.
"Shaun's challenge is huge and so poignant. He has my lifelong respect."
Dr Helen Galbraith, senior pro-vice-chancellor at the University of Chester, said: "Aaron's story is a powerful reminder of the devastating impact this disease can have, and we hope Shaun's visit will encourage students to learn more about meningitis, recognise the symptoms, and ensure they are up to date with recommended vaccinations.
"We wish Shaun and everyone involved the very best for the journey ahead."
Members of the public are invited to support Shaun when he arrives at Exton Park as he continues his journey towards Liverpool.
Money raised will support Meningitis Now. You can support the fundraiser here.
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