THE widow of footballer Willie Maddren has added the heart-rending final chapter to her husband's life story.

Extra Time - The Final Chapter has been published to continue the fundraising efforts to find a cure for motor neurone disease, which has so far topped £250,000 through the efforts of the Willie Maddren Fund.

The hardback book was launched at Bakers Tailoring, of Linthorpe Road, Middlesbrough, by Hilary Maddren with a help from former and current players, including Colin Cooper, David Mills, Bill Gates and Gordon Jones.

The new chapter tells Mrs Maddren's story of her husband's courageous fight for life in the face of adversity.

She opens her heart on the time leading up to the loss of her beloved husband at the age of 44.

She said: "Ten years ago, when he was told he had motor neurone disease, he said there were two things he wanted to do. Firstly, raise people's awareness of the disease and, secondly, to raise enough money to help find a cure.

"In the five years since he passed away, we have tried to do that and we will continue doing it."

Copies of the book, priced £20, are available from many shops, including Middlesbrough FC retail stores, WH Smith, Waterstones, The Book Inn, Billingham, and Ottakar's.