The Mayor of Todmorden, Cllr Pat Taylor, will join spectators at a charity Walking Football match this Saturday 12th March.
The match has been organised by a local Walking Football group to raise funds for UNICEF’s Ukraine emergency appeal and is due to take place from 12.30-3.30pm at Todmorden Leisure Centre.
The group, which is aimed at men and women aged 50 and above, normally meets on a Tuesday morning to enjoy a slower-paced version of the beautiful game. Each session focuses on friendly games of either 5 or 7-a-side designed to increase physical activity, improve mental wellbeing and build friendships.
Group member, Ashleigh Cooper, said “The group has been running, free of charge, for about ten years now, thanks to help from Burnley Football Club initially and latterly Todmorden Leisure Centre”
“It is great for those trying to keep fit in our later years and I personally have benefited greatly, reducing my blood sugar and blood pressure levels”
“Most of us in the group have grandchildren hence we wanted to do something for the poor children and refugees of Ukraine in this awful crisis and their moment of need”
A UNICEF statement issued on 1st March 2022 stated “The situation facing children caught up in the escalating conflict in Ukraine grows worse by the minute with fighting moving closer to civilian populations – closer to closer to children’s homes and schools, to hospitals and orphanages”
“Damage to infrastructure has left hundreds of thousands of people without safe water and electricity. Explosive weapons and remnants of war in populated areas are real and present dangers”.
“At least 13 children have been killed, according to data verified by OHCHR, with many more wounded. Children are being profoundly traumatized by the violence all around them. Hundreds of thousands are out of school. And all 7.5 million children in Ukraine are at heightened risk”.
“UNICEF is committed to staying in Ukraine and delivering for children. We are helping to make sure that child health and protection services are sustained, delivering critical supplies to families and ensuring children have clean water and nutritious food. You can help protect children in Ukraine by donating to UNICEF UK’s appeal”
Spectators are welcome to come to the match on Saturday and they can sponsor players in advance or make donations on the day.
Advance sponsorship can be made at the Leisure Centre where forms are available on the desk.
Those unable to attend but wishing to donate to UNICEF’s Ukraine appeal can do so online via www.unicef.org.uk/donate