Stalybridge Celtic u13 team support Willow Wood

Willow Wood were honoured to meet the Stalybridge Celtic under 13 team, who are proudly sporting the Hospice logo on their shirts.

The team, who play in Division 4 of the East Manchester Junior Football League, visited on Saturday 19 November and were accompanied by manager Steven Burns, assistant manager Sarah Turner and coach Nathan Bailey.

Steven explained the reasoning behind the new strip: “We wanted to spread the word about Willow Wood, and let people know just how wonderful it is. My dad was cared for here, and I just cannot emphasise how much the Hospice did for the whole family. Looking back now, it gives us so much comfort to reflect on the time he spent here. Nothing was too much trouble, and the care was just so personal – thinking about it just takes my breath away.”

Sarah, whose grandfather was also cared for at Willow Wood agreed. “It’s a lovely place and the care is absolutely second to none. Quite a few of the team have personal connections to the Hospice, and we all want to support it however we can.”

Lynn Fothergill, communications, PR & marketing officer met the team and was delighted to be presented with a team shirt. This is to be framed and will be displayed within the Hospice, showing the link between the two organisations. Lynn said, ‘It was so lovely to meet the team, they’re all so enthusiastic and looked very smart in their blue and white kit. “Our thanks to everyone, especially parents Matt and Lyndsey Ramsden who actually sponsored the strip – so very generous, and much appreciated. Having our logo on the shirts may spark conversations about our services and reach a different audience which can only be good.

“We are very proud of our community support throughout the whole of Tameside and Glossop, and Stalybridge Celtic under 13s have just opened up another avenue for us. Our thanks again, we really are very grateful.”

If you would like to find out more about Willow Wood’s care for those with a life-limiting illness, and how the Hospice may be able to help you, there is plenty of information available on our website.