GALLERY: Thousands raised as friends and family gather to remember popular sportsman
Action from the Stuart Seekings memorial football match - Credit: Archant
A memorial football match in memory of popular sportsman Stuart Seekings raised £9,000 for Cancer Research UK.
More than 60 family and friends turned out at Littleport Leisure Centre last Sunday to take part in the tournament – with dozens more enjoying a host of other festivities.
Stuart died of a brain tumour, aged 30, back in December last year.
Football was one of Stuart’s biggest passions, from supporting Manchester United, to playing football locally for teams in Littleport, Ely and Pymoor.
It was decided, therefore, that a football match was the most appropriate way to celebrate his life whilst raising money for a good cause.
What started as a match between two teams quickly became a fully-fledged tournament, with team representing Littleport, Ely and Pymoor and a fourth team – Stu’s XI.
The winning team on the day was Stu’s XI, captained by his son, Bailey. The team won 8-2 in the final against Littleport.
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Alongside the football tournament, there was also face painting, glitter tattoos, a barbecue, cake stall, raffle and tombola.
After the tournament, an auction took place, followed by musical entertainment provided by the Off Beats.
Nathan Mitchell, who led the team of organisers, said: “I would also like to thank personally Stuarts’ family, my closest friends and my family for all of the support, generosity, help and effort, not just on the day, but in the months of planning leading up to it.”
Nathan also gave thanks to Manit Contractors, Nigel Pindar Transport, 3Q Sports and the Littleport Leisure Centre, for the support they gave the event and Barclays Bank, who matched the first £1,000 raised on the day. Stuart’s mother, Julie Lewis also offered her thanks.
You can still donate to the cause on the Just Giving website, www.justgiving.com/Nathan-Mitchell1 - and find up to date information and pictures on the event, or get in touch, via the Facebook event page.
