Duncan Ferguson has urged fans to back a cycling event designed to raise funds for a mental health incentive in memory of Gary Speed.
The midfielder was loved by both Everton and Newcastle fans during his time at both clubs. Now the aim is to raise £65,000 for the Speed Cycle.
Ferguson said: “He was a gentleman, a total gentleman and I always remember that big smile.
“He was a great fella, a great player, a great professional and a great guy – everybody always wanted to be next to him.
“He was just a great man.”
Speaking about mental health, Ferguson said: “I think as a society now we are more aware of our mental health; things are changing, the environment is changing.
“There are a lot of people suffering with poor mental health and it is a big issue.”
An Everton statement about the event read: “Twenty two Evertonians will cycle more than 240 miles next month in memory of former Blues midfielder Gary Speed to raise funds for Everton in the Community’s mental health campaign, The People’s Place.
“Backed and endorsed by Gary’s parents Carol and Roger, The Speed Cycle will see the group trek between all of the Wales international’s former clubs, setting off from Newcastle United in the early hours of Saturday 1 June and heading to Elland Road, home of Leeds United.
“Sunday 2 June will then see the cyclists take on the hills of Yorkshire and Lancashire as they travel to Sheffield United and Bolton Wanderers before the final leg brings them back to Goodison Park on Sunday evening.”
*All money raised from The Speed Cycle will go towards helping Everton in the Community reach its £1million fundraising target to build The People’s Place - a purpose-built mental health facility close to Goodison Park that will support anyone in times of need.
For more information on The People’s Place visit www.peoplesplace.net.
