Football Night scores big for hospice care

A Lionesses star was part of the line-up at a Big Football Night Fundraiser, which has scored over £5,200 for hospice funds.

Manchester United Women forward Ella Toone told fascinating stories about the world of football, alongside her partner and fellow footballer Joe Bunney, ex-Manchester City goalkeeper Alex Williams MBE and former City kitman Les Chapman.

The fifth annual event was held recently at Dukinfield Masonic Hall, where almost 200 guests were treated to a fun night along with a pie and pea supper.

This year, a record amount was raised for Willow Wood Hospice – which provides specialist, dignified and compassionate care to patients with a life-limiting illness from Tameside and Glossop.

Councillor Denise Ward – who once again provided the pie and peas, paid for herself and made in her own kitchen – was also presented with a certificate by the Hospice for being an unsung hero for supporting fundraising efforts.

The popular event is organised by Brian Wild and Chris Smith, who are long-time supporters of Willow Wood.

Over the years, football favourites such as Martin Buchan, Peter Barnes, Eamon O’Keefe, Trevor Ross and Tommy Booth have appeared to help raise money for the hospice.

Lucy Ta’ati, Community and Events Fundraiser at Willow Wood, said: “Only 21.5 per cent of our annual running costs come through government funding – the rest must be raised through the generosity of our local community.

“Without the unbelievable efforts of people giving up their time to raise money through events such as the Football Night, the hospice would not be able to continue to provide vital services for those who need our care.

“We want to say a big thank you to Chris and Brian, the footballers past and present for giving their time, and everyone who contributed to a wonderful and successful evening.”