Last weekend saw the Broadway Vets, champions of the Bolton Veterans League Division 3, take on the Once Upon A Smile Celebrity XI, in a footy match at Irlam Steel FC to benefit the Once Upon A Smile (OUAS) children's bereavement charity and the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF).
The match was the centrepiece of a fun day opened by local singer/songwriter Jess Kemp, a Minion Mascot and the Frozen princesses who, together with Olaf, performed sing-a-longs with the children. Uncle Budgie was also on hand to do magic tricks and make balloon animals as he walked around.
The match itself was fiercely competed, with the Vets storming into a 2-0 half time lead, courtesy of goals from Maloney and Morely. In the second half the celebs fought back to 2-2, with two goals by Charlie Ennis, who plays for Stalybridge Celtic, before the OUAS XI team won on penalties.
"Special thanks go out to all those who braved the weather and supported two great charities by doing so, and also to all the stall holders and volunteers who donated their time on the day to help out" says Natalie Allanson, who organised the event with partner and Vets forward Michael Coates.
"I would also like to thank all the stars who came along from Once Upon A Smile and took the time to meet and greet the supporters and children, and also the Steel Works club for providing the venue" she adds "We raised £1,308 all of which has been donated to the two charities, including a kind donation of £100 by Howdens of Irlam. The Broadway Vets are now looking to get a rematch against the celebrity team to win back the trophy in the near future, and, should they rise to the challenge, it will be held at Mersey Valley FC in Sale; so watch this space."
Photos by Natalie Allanson and Sarah Dalton
Main photo shows Emmerdale's Danny Miller with mascots Sarah-Jane, Kayah, Ryan and Caleb
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