BROTHERS from Frodsham following FA Cup games around the country for charity were snubbed at the trophy’s semi-final stage.

Richard and Robert Knowles organised Runcorn2Wembley in aid of Cancer Research UK and have raised more than £4,000 and travelled hundreds of miles.

The pair – who have accepted donated tickets to 15 FA Cup games – began their adventure at Runcorn Linnets in August and shadowed the winner of each match from then on, collecting donations from fans on the way.

But, in the cup’s penultimate game, local bureaucracy saw the team banned from collecting outside Wembley and £800 short of their target.

Richard, 35, of Godscroft Lane, said: “Everyone associated with Runcorn2Wembley was disappointed to be watching the semi-final at home on the TV, rather than being at Wembley.”

According to Richard, Brent Council, the Metropolitan Police and the Football Association refused to permit a collection at the semi-final or final due to safety.

The clubs on Saturday both denied the charity campaign tickets to the match, despite having seats available, and it seems as though the team will be similarly refused for the final on May 15.

“It is very frustrating seeing as how much help we received from smaller clubs,” said Richard, who now hopes to raise the final £800 at the FA Trophy Tour,” added Richard.

“It just goes to show that the bigger the club, the less they care about the fans.”

The siblings and their team of fundraisers are aiming to raise £5,000 in memory of father Graham Knowles..

To donate to the cause go to www.justgiving.co.uk/Richard-Knowles.