Words Brian Flynn | Pictures Jonathan Moore

The King’s Birthday Honours List 2025 includes Alty fan, Joseph Adams, who has been awarded the British Empire Medal (BEM) for services to Altrincham Football Club and to charitable fundraising, raising over £425,000 for Altrincham FC Community Sports to fund disability sports and employability programmes.

The 22-year-old, completed his ‘No Limits’ challenge, an incredible ten 10K runs in ten countries over six days, between August 27-September 1, 2024.

Joseph started his challenge in Amsterdam before taking on 10K runs in Liege, Luxembourg City, Heidelberg, Bregenz, Zurich, Como, Monaco and Nice, before completing his challenge by running the Altrincham 10K.

Phil Adams, Joseph’s Dad said, “We are all incredibly proud of Joseph - it was an exceptionally tough challenge and took real courage to complete in quite extreme heat. We are hugely grateful for all the support Joseph has received from the local community and Altrincham Football Club and this award is wonderful recognition both of Joseph’s achievement but also the amazing community around the club and the area.”

Joseph was joined on his challenge by sisters Megan, Eleanor and Grace, mum and dad Julie and Phil, and first aider and family friend, Jo Racle.

Joseph, who has Downs Syndrome and was in special care for three weeks when he was born and didn’t walk until he was nearly three years old, is now a very active sportsman, competing in national swimming championships (coming first in the 25m breaststroke in 2023 and 2024) and regularly playing rugby, football, tennis, and cricket.

In March, superstar fundraiser, Joseph, was named Premier League Community Captain for 2025, in recognition of his commitment and contribution to the game and society. He said, “I am really excited to be getting this award and can’t wait to see my medal! Thanks to everyone who has supported me”. 

Altrincham FC CEO, Sam Mackenzie, paid tribute to Joseph:- “From the moment I was introduced to Joseph I was struck by his community spirit, his motivation to challenge himself and be outside of his comfort zone was outstanding to see.

"The funds raised were eye-watering, and in my opinion down solely to Joseph and his determination to finish his ‘No Limits’ Challenge. This recognition is well deserved, and I know he will take it in his stride with some pizza and beer.

"Congratulations Joseph and thank you, everyone at Altrincham Football Club is so very proud to have you as part of our family.”