Peterborough man raises more than £7,700 for Sue Ryder through annual football fundraiser

21-year-old Adam Darkin from Peterborough is celebrating the success of his eighth annual Sue Ryder Charity Cup event, which this year has raised a record £7,733 for Sue Ryder.

Adam started his football fundraiser, which is held at Peterborough Football Club each May, to support a cause which would have a direct impact on his local community.

This year, however, the event took on a deeper personal meaning. Adam saw first-hand the expert and compassionate care that Sue Ryder provided to his partner’s mum in the final months of her life.

“It’s always been for Sue Ryder from the start”, Adam shares. “But last summer, my partner’s mum became unwell, progressing very quickly to terminal cancer. She started receiving hospice at home care, then spent her final weeks at Sue Ryder Thorpe Hall Hospice.”

“I have visited the in-patient unit at the hospice before, but this was first time I really saw how the money I had been helping to raise could make a difference. It made this year’s event extra special.”

The Sue Ryder Charity Cup sees two teams - the Reds and the Blues - compete in a 90-minute match cheered on by a sea of supporters. The day also includes a charity raffle helping to raise more money so that more people can receive the expert end-of-life care and support they deserve.

This year, the Reds took the title following a nail-biting penalty shootout.

“The teams are made up of friends and family and include people off all ages – from 18 to 50. It’s a great day and this year we absolutely smashed it. I think the turnout was a testament to the love and support people wanted to show my partners’ mum, Natalie. It was incredible to see something positive come out of a really difficult time for all.”

“I’d like to say a big thank you to everyone who has continued to support the event, including Chloe Holmes who runs the raffle, which is always fun and a great success. We really hope that people will continue to back us in the future”

With next year’s Sue Ryder Charity Cup already in their sights, the team is seeking businesses to sponsor the event. “The more support we can get. the more we can give back to Sue Ryder,” Adam adds. “Even a small contribution would make a big difference.”

Morgan Hicks, Regional Fundraiser at Sue Ryder, said: “We are incredibly grateful to Adam and to everyone involved for their ongoing dedication. It’s thanks to supporters like them that we can continue providing expert care and grief support, because no one should face death or grief alone.”

“If anyone is able to support the event going forward, we would encourage you to get in touch with Adam.”

To find out more about sponsoring the event, contact the Sue Ryder Thorpe Hall Hospice fundraising team by emailing [email protected] or calling 01733 225 999.

Find out more about Sue Ryder at: sueryder.org