VETERAN footballers kicked off against cancer and the Christmas bulge during a charity match, then ploughed straight into the bacon butties afterwards.
Around 40 players donned their boots for a 90-minute fundraiser for Young Lives vs Cancer at King George Recreation Ground in Twyford.
The game was organised to boost charity funds after a young Twyford Comets player was diagnosed with a rare bone cancer. It followed other Comets’ fundraising activities including sponsored head shaves and a ‘5km a day’ running challenge.
Club coaches took on players’ parents during the end-to-end thriller, which ended in a 5-2 victory for the coaches. Most participants were in their 40’s and welcomed the chance to shift some Christmas calories for a good cause, as well as a chance to enjoy a coffee and a bacon roll on a chilly morning.
The event, hosted on December 29 raised £557. Match fees were donated, as were proceeds from a ‘fastest shot’ competition and all takings from the ground’s café that morning.
Organiser Kam Gandham said: “Twyford Comets were shocked to hear of our young player’s illness but have shown real team spirit in raising so much for Young Lives vs Cancer.
“It’s a great cause and was a great occasion, even if fitness levels were not of Premier League standard.”
For more information about Young Lives vs Cancer, visit: https://www.younglivesvscancer.org.uk
By George Hamilton
