DROITWICH’S first-ever Soccer Aid raised around £5,000 for Orchid-Fighting Male Cancer during their charity match.
The Droitwich Veterans took on the Droitwich seniors during the charity match at the town’s Rugby Club on Saturday, with the veterans running out as 3-1 winners.
A great crowd turned out despite the rain, including Mayor of Droitwich Spa, Coun George Duffy, Coun Richard Morris, MP Nigel Huddleston and Droitwich CVS CEO Tonia Enderbury.
Veterans captain Steve Pitts was the inspiration for the match having developed testicular cancer and he had the honour of receiving the Keith Smith Memorial Trophy from the Mayor.
The Droitwich Rugby Club bar was packed after the match where the teams and supporters enjoyed an after-party including a disco and a sports memorabilia auction.
The event also intended to encourage men to not suffer testicular cancer on their own and to talk about their experiences.
Simon Graham, who helped to organise the event, said: “The match was an overwhelming success and it was such a surprise that so many people turned up as due to the weather we feared we’d be playing the game alone.
“We need to break the male taboo of keeping things inside and dealing with issues alone as doing this only leads to further mental health issues.
“Testicular cancer is curable for 80 per cent of men and Steve is a testament to that.”
After the success of the event, plans are already underway for a follow-up game on June 17, 2023, and Simon hopes some former professionals will be added to the teams next year.
