A 12-year-old boy will be running 20 miles to the Vitality Blast T20 game between Sussex and Somerset for the Matthew Hobden Trust.

Teddy Birkbeck, who turns 13 the day after his run, will begin at Matthew Hobden’s grave at Chiddingly Cricket Club to the First Central County Ground in Hove on Friday, June 18.

The 6ft 5in right-arm fast bowler, who had been selected for the Potential England Performance Programme, sadly passed away at the age of 22 in 2016.

And current Somerset academy member Birkbeck, who is Hobden’s cousin, said it is “very important” for him to raise money for the charity set up in his name.

“It’s so close to my heart because what he used to do and I am inspired by him,” said Teddy.

“They (Matthew Hobden Trust) help cricketers in need, if they can’t fund kit they will help all cricket clubs.”

Ed said: “They also sponsor various children through schools and academies.

“The Matthew Hobden Trust have raised a lot of money and they will just help everyone who applies for money through these clubs whether they want a new pavilion or a new school board. They work their way through that.”

North Somerset Times: Teddy Birkbeck with Clevedon CC Harry Ellison.Teddy Birkbeck with Clevedon CC Harry Ellison. (Image: Archant)

Clevedon cricketer Harry Ellison played alongside Hobden at Millfield School.

Ellison called Hobden a “great character”, “very kind” and “great to be around.”

And Ellison’s dad Richard also coached Matthew at Millfield.

“It’s absolutely phenomenal, what an effort to run 20 miles and it’s for a great cause, all the best to him and I wish him good luck,” he said.

“Matt was an old school mate of mine, it’s just a great thing to do for him.”

Ed added he was “very proud” of Teddy and hopes his run can bring in more money for the charity.

So far over £1,000 has been made on JustGiving from 35 donations.

North Somerset Times: Teddy Birkbeck with his father Edward at Clevedon Cricket Club.Teddy Birkbeck with his father Edward at Clevedon Cricket Club. (Image: Archant)

“We would like to raise as much as possible,” he said.

“That’s the reason we picked the game because crowds are back as well and I think they have sold all the tickets.

“It’s a nice touch for him because it’s the Somerset connection as well so hopefully this will raise awareness for the Somerset part, so we can turn up when they play Sussex. Hence the date was chosen.

“Let’s hope it builds awareness, raises money and keep his name in the spotlight for all the right reasons.”

Teddy added: “It makes me very happy that we have finally reached our goal and hopefully we can get more and more donations. I just hope his legacy carries on.”

For more information and how you can donate check out the link - https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/edward-birkbeck?utm_source=whatsapp&utm_medium=fundraising&utm_content=edward-birkbeck&utm_campaign=pfp-whatsapp&utm_term=17e56095b39540989ef7c161176d6ab1.