FOOTBALL star Shay Given has told how the death of his mother spurred him to head a campaign raising thousands of pounds for charity.

The Newcastle United goalkeeper has become patron of Macmillan Cancer Relief, leading a campaign to raise £575,000 in memory of his mother, Agnes, who died from cancer when he was five years old.

Tyneside Macmillan Cancer Relief hopes its "575" appeal will fund four new specialist staff in the region.

His involvement with Macmillan began after Barclaycard presented him with £2,000 in recognition of his outstanding displays last season. He decided to donate the cash to Macmillan and spoke about the charity's work and his mother's death.

The Irish international said: "I remember visits to the hospital and even one Christmas opening presents there.

"It spurs me on. I think she is up there, looking down on me.

"It's just a personal thing but it really motivates me. I think about her and I push myself. I am determined to do better for her.

"I know she would be pleased that I have become involved with Macmillan and everything I do for them will be in her name."

The Magpies keeper has received huge support for his work with Macmillan from his team-mates and wife Jane, originally from Hexham, Northumberland.

He also wants to take part in a 10km run later in the year but he has to put his day job first and is waiting for manager Sir Bobby Robson's view before making a decision.