Anyone who’s played or watched non-league football in and around the county over the last ten years or so will be aware of Paolo Piliero, a Nottingham born bustling midfielder who’s represented the likes of Carlton Town, Dunkirk, Gedling Miners Welfare and most recently last season Newark Flowserve amongst others.

Paolo however has turned his attentions to something very different during lockdown as he is now one week into raising awareness of anxiety, depression and suicide through a popular Facebook challenge with a difference.

The 33 year old who now plays for Long Eaton United, is aiming to complete the 25 day 25 push-ups challenge but whilst most have completed their set in usual surroundings, Paolo has upped the ante and come up with the idea to add fancy dress and children into a routine which is becoming viral over the internet.

From flapper girls to Baywatch scenes, Lion King to Bruno Mars, Paolo (and kids) is supporting the charity ‘Mind’ to raise money and awareness with one singing/dancing performance a day for twenty days followed by 300 press ups completed in less than 15 minutes each and every day.

When asked ‘why 300?’ on his Just Giving page (which can be found here) Paolo stated “I want to complete 300 everyday in one sitting. My aim is to do it in under 15 minutes per day. The reason for 300 is because I want it to be tough, painful and have the feeling some days that I just can’t carry on. My point is that I will have days that 300 will be a big struggle. But it’s important we KEEP MOVING & WE DON’T GIVE UP!!”

Paolo furthered “Mental health effects 1 in 4 of us and I believe that nobody should cope with it alone.”

Having already raised well over £1,000 you can donate to this great cause by clicking here and remember to watch Paolo on his just giving journey through Instagram (here) over the next couple of weeks for some more fantastic awareness raising fun.

Main image @CLPhotography Paolo in more usual surroundings when representing Ilkeston Town.