A BLACKBURN Rovers fan who suffers from depression will trek to Peru to raise cash and awareness of the cond-ition in memory of former Rovers forward Chris Thompson.

Mr Thompson, who scored 26 goals in 100 appearances for the Ewood Park club in the 1980s, died in June last year aged 52.

An inquest in December heard that Mr Thompson had become a reclusive alcoholic with depression, and had cirrhosis of the liver that was ‘most likely’ related to alcohol.

Touched by the story of Mr Thompson in The Lancashire Telegraph, James Fallon, 26, a lifelong Rovers fan, decided that he wanted to do something for mental health charity MIND.

He said: “I suffer from chronic depression and anxiety, and have always had an interest in South America and its history.

“I wanted to raise money for a fantastic charity which helps so many people through very difficult times. I also wanted to raise awareness of mental health issues.

“I was inspired to do this by reading the story in the Telegraph about Chris Thompson and the cir-cumstances surrounding his death.”

Mr Fallon, originally from Blackburn, but now living in Bolton, said he will be trekking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu from November 2. He said: “I have emailed Chris’s former clubs asking for their support.

“I have a target of £3,625 to raise before August, so any support, particularly from fellow Rovers fans, would be greatly app-reciated.

“If this all goes well, I am seriously considering doing one of these adventures a year until I am 30 to raise even more awareness and funds.”

Walsall-born Chris Thompson signed for Rovers in 1983 from Bolton Wanderers, playing as strike partner to all-time leading goalscorer Simon Garner.

He moved on to Wigan in 1986, where he would form a prolific partnership with future manager Paul Jewell.

He went on to play for Blackpool, Cardiff and Walsall.

At the time of his death he was living in his West Midlands home.

To sponsor Mr Fallon in his quest visit justgiving.

com/james-fallon2