In 2012, members of Consett and District Sunderland Supporters’ Association chose their Local Hospice as their Charity of the Year, 12 years later the partnership is still strong and the group have raised over £50,000!
The branch which was set up in 1995 at a meeting in the town’s Demi Club, has proudly supported Willow Burn Hospice through various events, including a talk-ins, annual barbeques and raffles.
Rachel Quince, Deputy Chief Executive and Head of Fundraising & Marketing was thrilled to collect a cheque for £4265.00 from committee members at their summer barbeque on 22 June at Consett Rugby Club
Michael Nixon, Secretary of the association said about the support for Willow Burn: "1 in 2 people's lives are affected by cancer. Being a local facility it became an obvious choice for the branch to support for the number of years we have now. Every member will know someone who has been touched by Willow Burn so any help we can give can only be of benefit."
Rachel said: "It is always a real pleasure to go down and say thank you to the members of Consett SAFC Supporters Association at their annual barbeque. We are truly grateful for the support but never surprised by the level of generosity that comes from the members - their dedication to not only the football club but also their Local Hospice is truly special.
The level of income they have raised for the hospice in such a short space of time has made a real difference to the services we offer to people in our community living with a life limiting illness. In the 2023/2024 season alone they raised enough to fund a full-time palliative care nurse for six weeks.
A huge thank you to the committee and all of the members, past and present for all you have done to ensure that Willow Burn is always there to give people support when they need it the most."
The event on Saturday 22 June raised over £2000 which is a phenomenal start to the new season's fundraising efforts. Carol Hagri, Head of Clinical Services at Willow Burn, a member of the association and a life-long fan of the football club, joined Rachel to receive the cheque.
The Consett and District Sunderland Supporters’ Association was founded in 1995 and since then amassed hundreds of members. They provide transport to all home fixtures at the Stadium of Light, while also hosting various fundraising events throughout the year.
To join the branch or make a donation, please email info@consettsafc.com
