Blunkett set to zip slide over Owls' pitch for charity fund

Mr Blunkett, who is honorary president of the Sheffield Wednesday

supporters group "Wednesdayite", said he wanted to take the opportunity to thank the hospital for the care he and his family have received.

He said: "I have personally benefited from this fantastic hospital, along with my three boys, and I am certain most people in Sheffield have been touched by the amazing work that takes place there.

"We are so fortunate to have one of the leading children's hospitals in the country on our doorstep and this is my way of showing my support for this excellent facility."

Among those flying from the back of the Kop across the pitch to the Leppings Lane end will be staff from The Children's Hospital and parents of young patients who are being treated there.

Barry Whitlam and Laura Cartwright, whose nine-month-old son has been under the care of the hospital since he was born, will be taking part with seven of their family and friends.

Carter, who was born with a diaphragmatic hernia, will be joining his parents on the day, accompanied by a nurse from the hospital.

Sheffield Wednesday manager Alan Irvine, chairman Lee Strafford and club captain Darren Purse will also be taking part.

Mr Strafford, who was behind the club scheme to donate shirt sponsorship to the hospital charity, said: "My involvement in the zip slide is an extension of our continued support and I am delighted to be combining a fun activity with raising money for a cause that is so close to my heart."

The zip slide event will run from 10.30am to 4.30pm on Sunday.