Manchester City fans helped a local charity score much-needed funds thanks to generous donations made before the win against Newcastle United.
St Ann’s Hospice staff were joined by more than 30 volunteers who gave their time to run a special collection outside The Etihad Stadium before the match, netting £2,250 for the charity.
Volunteer Rachel Hicklin, from Didsbury, whose dad Jim Hicklin was cared for by St Ann’s, said: “The first match my Dad took me to was against Newcastle in 1977, so perhaps it was fitting that we played them.
“It was a privilege to be part of the collection. My sisters and I have such special memories of my dad’s last few weeks with us in St Ann’s.
“The staff looked after him so well, and also took care of us as it more or less became our home for three weeks.
“St Ann’s is such a local charity, and many people who gave money before the game said it was a great cause. One chap even gave me a hug and said, ‘Keep up the good work’.
“So many people’s lives must have been touched by St Ann’s, and they have never forgotten how their loved ones were cared for. I think that is what I will take away from taking part in the collection.”
St Ann’s cares for thousands of local people and their families each year from its sites in Heald Green, Little Hulton, and the Neil Cliffe Centre, as well as via a range of outreach and community services.
Hospice Chief Executive, Eamonn O’Neal, said: “We can’t thank all of the football fans – and the volunteers who supported us – enough.
“We’re constantly amazed by the fantastic generosity of local people when it comes to supporting our work, and every penny really does help us to provide specialist care for the local patients and families who need our support.
“We’re as thrilled with the amount raised at the game as the City fans are with the result.”
*To make a donation to St Ann’s visit www.sah.org.uk or call 0161 498 3631.
