On June 10th a team of celebrities will arrive at Broadhurst Park to take on a Salford Saxons X1. It's all for a great cause with proceeds going to Once upon a Smile.
Seasoned charity fundraiser, Paul Hughes, has organised, not only the match but also a great day for the family at FC United, with raffles and auctions. Having successfully arranged previous events in August 2015 and May 2016, Paul decided to continue and make the fundraiser an annual event.
Each year he has selected a charity that focuses on important issues that have had a profound impact on his life, and the fundraisers have got bigger and better (both of the previous two raising around £2000 each). This year Paul has approached Once upon a Smile and secured the services of their football team for a not to be missed charity bash.
Once upon a Smile is a fantastic charity that was founded in 2011 by TV stars Daniel Jillings (Doctors, Emmerdale and Casualty) and Danny Miller (Emmerdale's Aaron). The aim was to host events and donate the proceeds to support bereaved families, after it became apparent that there was often a lack of support after the death of a loved one. The charity now provides a wide range of emotional and practical help including financial support, respite breaks and bereavement groups.
Once upon a Smile has a great squad of players that regularly play to raise funds and awareness for this amazing charity. The squad includes local football legends such as Manchester's Paul Dickov, former Blackburn Rovers midfield maestro David Dunn and ex-Bolton Wanderers centre forward and manager Owen Coyle. Also on their books are actors such as Royle Family star Ralf Little, and This is England's Thomas Turgoose.
These names are just a selection of the talent available and it's worth taking a look at the charity's website to see a litany of well-known performers who regularly give their time to support this great cause.*
The Aftershow, hosted by Danny Miller with a live set from SHINNy performing the anti-Glazer anthem We'll Never Die, has now sold out. But get along to this fantastic match, sponsored by Moneyline on Salford Precinct , and help to raise funds for a great charity.
Once upon a Smile charity match
Saturday 10th June kick off 3pm, doors open at 2pm
FC United, Broadhurst Park
Moston M40
Tickets are £6 for adults (over 16s) and £4 for children (up to age 15), with under one year olds free (but must register for a ticket)
Tickets are available to purchase using Eventbrite - click here
Disabled supporters can contact paulhughes1980@gmail.com
Donations can also be made via text. Please text OUAS75 £2/£5/£10 to 70070
Or at www.justgiving.com/fundraising/Paul-Hughes65
For more details also see the Once Upon A Smile Facebook Event Page - click here
* For more details of the team squad and the work of Once upon a Smile - click here
Words by Ian Leslie