Essex Senior League Sets 5,000 Scarf Target in Support of Alfie Lund

The Essex Senior League has set a target of helping young football supporter Alfie Lund reach 5,000 football scarves by the end of the 2025/26 season, demonstrating the League’s collective commitment to backing Alfie and his family.

Alfie lives with MECP2 Duplication Syndrome UK, a rare genetic condition that presents significant physical and neurological challenges. Despite this, Alfie’s love of football, and in particular football scarves, continues to bring him immense joy and connection with the wider football community.

Alfie’s scarf collection has already passed 3,400, with donations received from clubs, leagues and supporters from across the country and around the world. Each scarf reflects the generosity and compassion that has long defined non-league football.

A Long-Standing Football Journey

Alfie’s story within the game stretches back many years and is closely linked to the dedication of his dad, Mark. Following an article in The Non-League Paper, Mark’s 'crazy idea' to surround a football pitch with donated football items became a reality.

That idea grew quickly. Father and son travelled through the football pyramid, from grassroots and non-league clubs to the Premier League. Shirts donated along the way were later sold, with all funds raised donated to MECP2 Duplication Syndrome UK https://mecp2duplicationuk.org.uk/, helping families with respite breaks, lengthy hospital stays, specialist sensory equipment and, sadly, funeral costs.

Their efforts were recognised around ten years ago when Alfie and Mark received an Unsung Hero Award, acknowledging a project driven entirely by football’s willingness to give back.

Football Still at the Centre

Today, Alfie is tube-fed and long journeys are no longer possible. However, football remains a central part of his life. When conditions allow, Alfie and Mark can often be found watching football closer to home or supporting Wigan, continuing their connection with the game in a way that suits them now.

The scarf collection has become a continuation of that journey, offering Alfie enormous happiness while giving the football community another meaningful way to show its support.

A League-Wide Commitment

The Essex Senior League’s 5,000-scarf target is a League-led initiative, with member clubs, officials and supporters encouraged to play their part over the course of the 2025/26 season.

By setting this collective challenge, the League aims to show how powerful the football family can be when it comes together in support of one of its own.

All photos have kindly been provided with the kind permission of Mark Lund.