Footballers step up for New Milton charity match and fun day

A FAMILY fun day and charity football match will get under way in New Milton on Sunday 7th May in support of the New Forest Basics Bank and Southampton Hospital’s Ronald McDonald House.

Taking place at Fawcett’s Field Recreation Ground from 2pm, the fun day will feature stalls, a tombola, raffle, children’s games and lucky dip, with the charity match kicking off at 2.30pm.

The event has been organised by Ashley mum Maria Thomas, who has organised two similar events pre-Covid when she raised £1,350 for Ronald McDonald House after seeing first-hand the support a close friend received while her baby was treated for a serious liver condition.

Each year Ronald McDonald House provides accommodation for more than 1,000 families, enabling them to remain close together during hospital treatment.

Maria said: “I have some wonderful raffle prizes from local businesses which have been incredible in their support. I am now looking for tombola prizes if anyone is able to donate, or we have sale tables available to book for £5 each.”

Maria recalls she received support from the New Forest Food Bank when she was 16 and living alone.

“I believe sadly that food banks are needed more now than ever before,” she said. “When I was living alone and struggling they were there to support me, so it’s nice to finally be able to try and give something back to them.”

Admission will be 50p, and players in the charity football match have also donated to the fundraising effort.

“I am hoping to raise about £500,” said Maria. “But if we could make it any more, I would be really pleased.

"I really hope local people will come along and support us.”