Just over £6,000 was raised from the 24-hour event which has been split between two great causes, CHUF and to help fund floodlights at the new 3G pitch to be built at Whitley Bay High School, where Whitley Bay Sporting Club have close ties.

The idea for the event came from Robert Stringer, whose son Tommy has been playing at the club since he was 7 years old. In 2008, Tommy was born with a serious heart defect called ‘Transposition of the Great Arteries’ and required an open heart procedure called an ‘arterial switch’ at the age of 5 weeks old. This was carried out at the Freeman hospital and the success of the operation has allowed Tommy to lead a normal life and to enjoy his football at WBSC.

With the help of the club committee, a very accommodating staff at Whitley Bay High School and the support of numerous volunteers, Rob Stringer and Simon Campbell set about organising the event, and both were on site for the full 24 hours, which finished with Rob’s son Tommy playing in the final game on Saturday.

Throughout the 24 hours, there were 316 goals scored, over 300 players took part and at least 20 balls lost due to wayward shots! Thankfully, the event was injury free, despite a few stiff limbs in the days following and Rob said: “We’re overwhelmed by the support and donations we’ve received and I’m sure the Children’s Heart Unit Fund and Whitley Bay High School will be very grateful for the donations. This event has really shown what a wonderful community Whitley Bay has. Thank you to everyone who showed their support.”

A huge thank you to all involved and a massive well done from everyone at CHUF!

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