A former Oldham Athletic director has helped raise more than £25,000 for mental health charity Six Connections through a 24-hour padel marathon.

Simon Brooke, who previously served on the board at Oldham Athletic and Oldham Event Centre, was part of the core organising team behind the inaugural 24 Hour Padel People event at Pendle Padel Club. The challenge saw twelve players remain on court continuously for 24 hours, taking on dozens of opponents while hundreds of supporters, businesses, and volunteers came together to support the event.

Brooke said: "This was never just about playing padel for 24 hours. We wanted to create an event that brought people together, got people talking, and raised vital funds for mental health support. Seeing so many businesses, volunteers and friends give up their time was genuinely inspiring."

"The atmosphere throughout the 24 hours was incredible. There were moments when the physical challenge was tough, particularly in the heat, but the support from everyone who came along kept us going."

The event raised over £25,000, which will help Six Connections provide mental health awareness and conversation training for charities, schools, sports clubs, and community organisations across Lancashire and Greater Manchester, including Oldham.

Brooke has a strong track record of community fundraising across the region, having raised tens of thousands of pounds for charitable causes. He expects the padel challenge to become an annual fixture.

"It proved what can happen when good people come together behind a cause that matters. We set out to create something different and hopefully something that will continue to grow for years to come," he added.

The event underscores the community spirit in Oldham and the surrounding area, with local leaders driving support for essential mental health services.