Barrow AFC Community and The Bluebirds Trust are joining forces with the Barrow & District Junior Football League for a marathon football fundraiser.
The 24-hour match will raise money equally for both the Barrow & District Junior Football League (BDJFL) to improve local facilities, and to improve disabled supporter facilities at The Progression Solicitors Stadium.
Hawcoat Park has been confirmed as the venue for the ambitious event, with a 6pm kick-off on Saturday 19th June as the starting point. The stamina-sapping contest will continue uninterrupted throughout the night and finish at 6pm the following day.
The game will be 9-a-side, with two squads consisting of 20 players taking part. One squad will be made up of the BAFC Community team and Bluebirds Trust members, while the opposition will be formed by the BDJFL.
BDJFL Chairman Ben Shirley was very enthusiastic about the prospect and commented:
“This is a great idea, it will bring people together after an extremely challenging 18 months or so, while raising money for local grassroots football and the wider community.
“We’re really looking forward to taking part, and we thank all involved for organising this event.”
The fund for improved disabled facilities at Barrow’s Progression Solicitors Stadium has already been boosted by a £1,000 legacy from Bluebirds stalwart Dave Tilburn, who passed away earlier this year.
His partner Richard Foster was delighted with the plans and said:
“Dave loved coming to Holker Street for over 60 years. The Club was his second home, rain or shine.
“In later life, he made use of the disabled facilities and would be proud his legacy has kick started this amazing appeal.”
Barrow AFC Community Trust Manager Craig Rutherford added:
“We are all very pleased to get this off the ground during these difficult times and we hope as many people support both worthy causes as much as possible.
“This will make a huge positive difference, not only to Barrow AFC supporters, but also anyone who uses local grass roots facilities and the wider community as a whole.”
The Bluebirds Supporters’ Liaison Officer Chris Altree is hoping the whole town can united behind the project and ensure it’s a massive success.
“This is an excellent opportunity for lots of different areas of football in the town to come together to help all football lovers enjoy the game.
“Thankfully for everyone, I’ve hung up my boots, but huge thanks to those that are giving up their time to take part in this amazing event.”
Event-organisers are still looking for sponsors for various aspects of the event and any organisation or individuals interested in offering support can contact Barrow AFC’s Community Trust Manager Craig Rutherford on c.rutherford@barrowafc.com