On Monday 15th August we, as a Shakers community, were saddened to hear that Bury Legend Lenny Johnrose had passed away. After being diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease in 2017, Len not only fought the symptoms but fought to raise awareness of the disease and set up the ‘Len Johnrose Trust’. Losing him was difficult for so many, but we are left to celebrate the life of a remarkable footballer and a remarkable person.
As part of his mission to raise awareness and funds for sufferers of MND, Len raised tens of thousands of pounds and visited his former football clubs to reunite with fans and spread the word. Len came to Gigg Lane in October 2018 to visit fans before Bury played Notts County and later make an appearance at a fundraising evening. On 17th July 2022, Len came to Gigg Lane once again for what would become his final appearance at the ground where he served the Shakers so successfully. Len came to support Bury Football Club Supporters’ Society’s fundraising event where he and his former players reunited for a Legends match against Burnley Legends. It was a great occasion where fans were able to reconnect and get behind the first men’s side to play at Gigg Lane since Bury FC’s cruel expulsion from the EFL in 2019. It also managed to raise £2,957 for the Len Johnrose Trust.
On Sunday 9th October those same Legends will return to play at Gigg Lane with even more additions to the Bury squad. This time they will be playing a Len Johnrose XI made up of players from his other former clubs where he is equally loved. Legends from Blackburn Rovers, Burnley, Swansea City and Hartlepool United will form a squad to take part in the inaugural ‘Len Johnrose Legacy Trophy’. The game is not only designed to once again welcome fans into Gigg Lane but to raise money for Len Johnrose Trust.
While the last Legends match was primarily raising money for the Restoration and Redevelopment of Gigg Lane, this event will see 100% of all ticket proceeds go to Lenny’s charity.
The Legends making up the Len Johnrose XI will be released in the coming weeks but you can buy your tickets now. Tickets will be on sale in physical form at Gigg Lane but you are able to order them online today.
We look forward to welcoming the many Legendary players and their families to Gigg Lane once more, as well as the thousands of fans who will undoubtedly want to support the occasion.
This is for you, Len.
