A cancer charity cycle ride in memory of the victims of the Killamarsh murders took place between Sheffield’s football clubs on Saturday.
Organised by the chairman of Sheffield City Football Club and friends and family of the victims, the event has so far raised over £1,300 for the Youth Cancer Trust.
The cyclists endured a 40-mile trip spanning Chesterfield, Dronfield, Stocksbridge and Sheffield, visiting eight football clubs en route.
Cameron Barton, 15, who was best friends with the Killamarsh victims, participated in the ride and said: “Going up to Stocksbridge, I pulled my quad and I thought I couldn’t do it.
“I just kept thinking I’ve got to get through it for the cause and for them.”
John Paul Bennett, 13, Lacey Bennett, 11, and their friend Connie Gent, 11, were murdered in 2021 by John and Lacey’s stepdad.
Their pregnant mother, Terri Harris, 35, was also killed in the incident.
Shortly before the tragedy, the children had been selling sweets to raise money for the Youth Cancer Trust.
Cameron’s uncle, Jamie Barton, is chairman of Sheffield City FC and wanted to help preserve their legacy by continuing their fundraising efforts.
Mr Barton said: “There were a couple of times we were fatiguing and I just kept saying it’s what we’re doing it for to push us on.
“The support has been amazing from the club and the community.”
Six people participated in the cycle ride, including Mr Barton’s 12-year-old daughter.
They began outside Chesterfield Stadium at 7am, before tackling Sheffield’s gruelling hills up to Stockbridge.
The group then returned to the city, crossing the finishing line at the Olympic Legacy Park before Sheffield City’s final match of the season.
Reflecting on the route, Mr Barton joked: “Why in God’s name did we choose to do it in Sheffield? It felt like the training had done nothing!”
The club continued to fundraise during their match with a raffle and a crossbar challenge.
70% of all money raised will go towards the charity, with the rest being used to support the grassroots football club’s growth.
The campaign has far exceeded its £1,000 target, but Mr Barton would like to see it reach double this figure.
If you would like to donate to the team, the GoFundMe is available here.
