Take a trip down football memory lane for Willow Wood

13 September 2023

An evening of funny stories, memories and fun with three former professional footballers will be held in Tameside in aid of Willow Wood Hospice.

It’s the fourth time the nostalgic event called ‘A trip down football memory lane’ is taking place, organised by Brian Wild and Chris Smith, who are long-time supporters of the hospice.

Brian, a former Civic Mayor of Tameside, was once a Trustee at Willow Wood and has even dressed up as Woody, the hospice’s mascot, on occasion.

The line-up for the nostalgic night is former Manchester City, Manchester United and England winger Peter Barnes, ex-Manchester City and Preston North End defender Tommy Booth, and former Everton and Arsenal midfielder Trevor Ross, who was born in Ashton-under-Lyne and now works in Oldham.

They will be in conversation with former top-flight referee Roger Dilkes, who will be the Master of Ceremonies for the night.

It’s on Friday 10 November at Dukinfield Masonic Hall, starting at 8pm.

Chris said: “We love doing it for Willow Wood, the hospice is so supportive and a great organisation. Everybody in the area has had their hearts touched by Willow Wood at some time.

“My wife passed away in Willow Wood and I’ve always had a longing desire to help fund it because hospices only get very limited funding from the NHS and have to find the rest of the money needed to keep going.

“We put this together, which usually raises between £1,500 and £2,000 each year, and everyone gets to have a good night. We would love to see you there.”

Brian added: “Willow Wood is a place we hope we never need but the hospice gives first-class care to everybody so I will always do what I can to support it.

“We love putting on the Football Night Fundraiser. We raise a lot of money on the raffle alone so, if there’s anyone who has any raffle prizes – however small – that they are willing to donate, we would gratefully accept them and happily pick them up from you.”

Lisa Buckley, Community Fundraiser at Willow Wood Hospice, commented: “Without people like Brian and Chris organising these events, Willow Wood would not continue to operate so we cannot thank them enough.

“Unfortunately, this year we are facing a deficit of over £600,000 so when people step up to put on these events, they make a massive difference. If you’re a football fan, or just want a good night out, please get a ticket if you can and help support the hospice.”

Tickets cost £10 including pie and mushy peas – which are generously donated by a volunteer, Denton councillor Denise Ward.

To get your tickets, call 0161 308 2685 or email Chris at smithowls@gmail.com