Friday 05 September 2025 14:25
Lou Macari’s selfless work for the homeless community recently inspired football fan Paul Venables to complete a 300-mile trek in the footsteps of his hero.
Venables, also known as The Bearded Wanderer, impressively walked from Celtic Park in Glasgow, down to Old Trafford in Manchester and then to the bet365 Stadium in Stoke.
Macari is a legend at both Celtic and United following his famous player career. Later, he managed the Potters on two occasions and remains a fan favourite there.
‘The Bearded Wanderer’ on his fundraising walk.
In recent years, Lou has inspired the nation with his tireless work to provide support and safe shelter for homeless people around the Stoke-on-Trent area.
Deeply moved by the campaign, Potters fan Venables set off on his charity walk to raise vital funds for The Macari Foundation, as well as The Davies Foundation.
“I started off on 29 June in Glasgow at Celtic where Lou started his playing career,” says Paul.
“I then headed south to Manchester and Old Trafford on 11 July, which is where Lou played for Manchester United and also has his famous chippy.
“I ended the stomp at the Macari Centre on 13 July, just a stone’s throw away from where the Victoria Ground was, where Lou managed Stoke City.”
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The trek was an obvious test of endurance for 50-year-old Paul, but it was made tougher by the fact he suffers from Ehlers Danlos Syndrome.
“As my variant isn’t too bad, it’s mainly unsightly lumps on my elbows and knees, stretchy skin and quite relaxed joints.
“From a walking perspective, this can give me stiffness and inflammation in my ankles and Achilles so even without these stomps, some days walking full stop can be painful.”
So far, Venables has raised over £2,800 for charity.
You can still donate to the cause by visiting his JustGiving page.
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Friday 05 September 2025 14:25
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