Charity football match is a hit once again

THE second edition of a charity football match organised to raise awareness of male suicide was once again a resounding success. The day also raised a significant amount for a related charity.

The Collins Cup took place at Look Local Stadium on Sunday August 4 and despite a grim forecast, the weather held until 6pm, allowing the match to be enjoyed by a bumper crowd.

Male suicide is a problem which has affected many families in the north of Sheffield is recent years and local man Lee Shepherd has organised the match in a bid to help.

Garin, originally from Edinburgh, was living in Australia but sadly took his own life in February 2018. He was a keen footballer, so the match is a fitting tribute. All proceeds from the day will go to Sheffield-based charity SToRMS (Strategies to Reduce Male Suicide).

Lee told Look Local: “The charity day was a great success with a great turn out considering the forecast. Thankfully the rain held off until around six when the heavens opened for a short period. Graham Lindley, who helped out enormously with the event, performed through the storm to keep the crowd entertained.

“The football game its self was a high scoring event with Stocksbridge Park Steels all stars beating Valley Athletic 5-1.

“The final figure is not quite in yet but with the addition of gift aid we have broken the £3,000 mark. Our just giving page is still open and accepting donations.

“We are looking at running the event again next year with even more things happening to get people through the door.

“More live music, more stalls and a strongman/women competition to name a few.

But we can’t do this without support and sponsorship from local people and businesses if you would like to get involved please get in contact.

“I will be looking for a sponsor to maybe provide a team with a custom kit for next year’s event with information about mental health incorporated in the design.

“The money raised will help SToRMS charity carry on their work, focusing on raising awareness with the school sector.

“I am also in the process of sourcing local community projects that work within the mental health sector as SToRMS are happy to use some of the money raised to help out with these projects.

“We have already lined up a few events such as a night at the dogs on Friday October 18 at Owlerton. This is £5 per ticket which includes entrance and drink. Contact me for details. Also, a quiz night is to be held at Zorro’s sometime early next year.

“I need to acknowledge everyone that helped. Bracken Moor sports and social club alongside Stocksbridge Park Steels for providing all the facilities, Graham Lindley for all the help with the music set up.

“All the lads that participated in the football match, players and officials also Ian Cavanagh for the penalty shoot out competition. Also, Antonia, Anthea, Alexandra, Carla, Izzy and Ash for there relentless work on the day.”

The Just Giving page can be found at https://www.justgiving. com/fundraising/lee-shepherd6 and you can contact Lee at aussieblade@live.com