The Brick Community Stadium is a place where the town comes together to celebrate local heroes, as the home ground of Wigan Athletic FC and Wigan Warriors RL. On 21 September, the stadium will welcome another Wigan hero.

Local dad Matt Bacon is taking on the remarkable challenge of running 196 laps of the stadium – over 70 miles – to raise money for The Natasha Allergy Research Foundation for the second year of his 14 for 14 Challenge. Each set of 14 laps symbolises one of the top 14 food allergens, bringing awareness to the significant challenges faced by those living with food allergies, including his seven-year-old daughter Savannah.

Savannah is allergic to milk, wheat, eggs, nuts, mustard and sesame, and has had multiple hospital visits due to severe allergic reactions triggered by food.

Matt and his wife, Sarah, want more people to understand the daily reality and challenges of living with severe food allergies.

They were inspired to create the 14 for 14 Challenge in 2024 to support our mission to #MakeAllergyHistory. Last year, Matt ran an incredible 14 miles for 14 consecutive days and raised over £2,000.

On 21 September, Matt will embark on his toughest challenge yet, running 70 miles in one day.

Matt told us:

“The furthest that I have ever run in one go is 26.2 miles, so this year’s challenge will be a huge step up in distance and will take every bit of determination to get over the line. I will be doing this for all people affected by food allergies and will push through for them.”

Matt’s challenge is more than just an extraordinary physical feat. It is an inspiring call to action and a reminder that everyone can bring hope and vital change.

1 October 2025 will mark the fourth anniversary of the implementation of Natasha’s Law. Natasha’s Law requires all food retailers to provide full ingredient and allergen labelling on all food made and pre-packed on the premises, including the top 14 allergens. This landmark legislation has been life-changing for people living with food allergies.

Together, we can make a real difference and build a brighter future for everyone with food allergies. Join Matt, Sarah and Savannah and take part in your own 14 for 14 challenge.

Join the 14 for 14 Challenge

The 14 for 14 Challenge is Back!

The Brick Community Stadium is a place where the town comes together to celebrate local heroes, as the home ground of Wigan Athletic FC and Wigan Warriors RL. On 21 September, the stadium will welcome another Wigan hero.

“The furthest that I have ever run in one go is 26.2 miles, so this year’s challenge will be a huge step up in distance and will take every bit of determination to get over the line. I will be doing this for all people affected by food allergies and will push through for them.”