Despite the weather, both teams turned up for the charity match in aid of Chestnut Tree House in good Spirits last Sunday. Worthing Football club who laid on their fantastic pitch at Woodside Road was filled with approximately 200 people who came to support Nick Malone and the resurrection of Gullseye Football Club.

Nick, who had recently been diagnosed with cancer and is currently undergoing treatment was surprised by his friends Jon Mayes & Jeremy Ransom who told him that a charity game had been organised on his behalf, and that Gullseye, a team from the 1990’s will perform once more. Nick was quickly on board and helped with organising what turned out to be a great day, full of great memories.

The game ended 5-5 with Nick scoring a 94thminute controversial penalty which just so happened to be the last kick of the game. The referee being the 12th Gullseye player was in fine form ensuring the veterans were constantly kept in the game. AFC Broadwater, the opposition, who played on the Saturday prior, winning 4 nil against St. Teresa’s FC  also brought out a few old faces. Jon Mayes of AFC Broadwater said “It was an absolutely fantastic turnout from both sides, and the supporters made it a magical day. As Nick mentioned in a speech he made later in the day, this is a true sign of humanity and the coming together of people to support both a charity and the friendships they cherish. A great day was had by all, and a massive thank you to both the Malone & Mayes children who rattled those buckets getting as many donations they could”.

A raffle was laid on in the bar afterwards which saw many local businesses supporting a great cause by offering some very generous donations; these including The Egremont, The George & Dragon, The Thomas a Beckett, Pinnacle Sports & Leisure, The Corner House, Butlins, Mid Sussex Golf Club and many offers from friends a families as well.

All in all the day generated over £1300; and in addition following a Sussex FM plug on Saturday morning a Just Giving page was set up and donations have been pouring into that as well.

Due to fantastic success of the day it has been decided that the Just Giving page will stay open for a few weeks in the hope some readers may choose to make some donations of their own – please search Nicholas Malone on the Just Giving websitehttps://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/Nicholas-Malone1

A massive thank you to everyone who made this day possible – and good luck Nick with you on-going treatments – all the best x

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