EMPLOYEES at a vehicle lease company played out a hard-fought charity match at the home of Reading Football Club.
Select Car Leasing, the club’s principal partner, fielded two sides of staff in a thrilling 2-2 draw, which was ultimately decided by penalties. Leasing consultant Aleksey Storchak scored the winning spot-kick to earn victory for the team captained by co-founder Mark Tongue.
The match also featured former Newcastle United and Republic of Ireland star Alan O’Brien, who is now a Swindon-based Select specialist.
All proceeds from the event will be split between Reading-based charities – the Sue Ryder Duchess of Kent Hospice and No.5.
Mr Tongue said: “This was a fantastic chance for us to indulge in two of our passions: supporting local charities while also getting to pull-on that famous Reading FC shirt.
“Many of the members of staff here at Select have been personally touched by the incredible work carried out by both Sue Ryder and No.5, and we’re humbled and privileged to be able to make a contribution to their efforts.”
The Sue Ryder Duchess of Kent Hospice, located in Southcote, offers expert palliative care to people across Berkshire living with a life-limiting condition and supports their families. Select’s relationship with the charity goes back to 2014.
The hub’s team of nurses, doctors, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, family support and befrienders collectively provide a Hospice at Home service, day service and care coordination, and advice line.
Jenn Patient, senior community fundraiser at Sue Ryder, said: “We’re very grateful to the team at Select Car Leasing for hosting this charity football match to raise funds for Sue Ryder.
“As a charity, we are reliant on the support of individuals, groups and businesses generously donating and fundraising for us, so we can be there when it matters.
“The money raised from the match will help us to continue providing the expert palliative care and bereavement support that we are so well known for in the local community.”
No.5 Young People was founded in 1971 and offers free, confidential mental health support, counselling and outreach for those aged from 11-25 who live, work or study in the RG postcode area.
A spokesperson for the charity said: “We were absolutely delighted to have been chosen as one of the local charities to be supported through the Charity Football Match. With over 900 young people currently waiting for help with their mental health, it is support like this from our local community and local businesses that means we can provide the help they need as quickly as possible.
“This funding will directly pay for counselling and outreach for local young people in need, and we are so grateful to everyone for their support, donations and for taking part.”
A JustGiving charity page for the event is still live and donations are welcome. Select has raised £1,298 so far.
To donate, visit: www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/select-carleasing-charity-football?utm_term=mQNDVQ5x5
