Two youth football teams are set to "light up the night" at the Chirk Dark Run event next month.

The Chirk Castle event on October 19 will see participants run or walk a 4k route, or 2k for those wanting a shorter distance, to raise money for Hope House Children's Hospices.

The event will feature a stunning backdrop of Chirk Castle at night.

Brymbo FC Under 9s and FC United of Wrexham Futsal team will join the fun, with more than 25 players, along with parents and coaches, taking part.

They will join up to 400 participants, many sporting glow sticks, neon brights, or Halloween fancy dress.

The inspiration for the teams to join the event came from Brymbo FC coach Justin Woolley and his football-loving son Rogan, who plays for both teams.

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Eight-year-old Rogan, his sister Melissa, and dad Justin took part in the Chirk Dark Run last year and enjoyed it so much that they wanted to support the event again.

Mr Woolley said: "Last year we loved being involved and raised £200.

"It was a fantastic evening and the medals were brilliant too.

"We really wanted to do it again, and to encourage the teams to raise money for a good local charity."

This is Mr Woolley's first year of coaching Brymbo U9s, and the team are on track for a successful season.

He said: "We’ve had a great season so far.

"It’s early days but we’ve already had two wins.

"They’re a great bunch and have embraced the fundraising, asking grandparents and friends for sponsorship.

"They’ll be wearing their football kits as well as some dark run accessories - glow sticks are a must!"

Mr Woolley also thanked the club sponsors, who have helped make grassroots football accessible to all.

He added: "We are lucky to have been supported by some great sponsors.

"Thank you to Cecil S Allen & Sons and DMH Tyres."

Fundraiser Vicky Bradbeer thanked the players, parents, and staff for joining the hundreds of runners and walkers signed up for the Chirk Dark Run.

She said: "It’s such a lovely event that we know the Under 9s will love.

"We’re so grateful to them for all the donations they’ve collected, which will help us to bring joy and precious moments to children with life-threatening conditions and their families.

"As well as a winning streak in their league games, they are fundraising champions for Hope House.

"What superstars!"

Hope House hosts four Dark Run events across North Wales and Shropshire.

As well as the Chirk event, there are also runs at Penrhyn Castle on October 19 and Telford Town Park and RSPB Conwy on October 26.

For more information visit www.hopehouse.org.uk/events.