More than £2,000 has been raised for men’s mental health after footballers past and present came together for the inaugural Harry Roberts Memorial Match at Oakfield Recreation Ground.
The special charity fixture, held on Saturday (25th July), honoured the memory of former Oakfield player Harry Roberts, who sadly passed away in 2024 at the age of just 25.
Harry progressed through the Oakfield youth ranks before going on to represent the club’s senior first team, making the memorial match a fitting tribute to his life and love of football.
The event was organised to raise awareness of men’s mental health, with all proceeds going to Mind. A large and enthusiastic crowd turned out to support the occasion, helping to raise more than £2,000 for the charity.
In a poignant reunion, Harry’s former Oakfield youth teammates returned from across the country to reform the side for one last game together. They took on Oakfield’s current senior team, with the youth side, wearing red, securing a 3-1 victory over the first team, who played in yellow.
However, the result was secondary to the purpose of the day, with the fundraising effort and the opportunity to celebrate Harry’s life proving to be the real success.
Special thanks have been paid to Jayden Blanchard and Connor Venn for organising the event, as well as Kelly Newnham, Mel Newnham, Karen Chapman and Lilly Ford for their fundraising efforts.
Donna Denness, manager of the Tidemill in Wootton, was thanked for sponsoring the occasion, while referee Ali Taylor was praised for officiating the match.
