Kind-hearted Ipswich Town fans dug deep and raised more than £1,500 for East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH).
EACH was the dedicated charity partner for Saturday’s Premier League fixture against Everton, at Portman Road.
There was a bucket collection around the ground and in the hospitality areas, as well as information and messages about the charity’s work being displayed in the programme, on the giant scoreboard and electronic advertising hoardings.
Town’s players wore branded warm-up tops, while EACH mascot ECHO was on hand to meet young supporters in the FanZone.
The exact amount raised is still being totted up, but the total is more than £1,500.
“We had a brilliant day and are extremely grateful to the club, for giving us this incredible opportunity and platform,” said EACH Senior Community Fundraiser Anna Bruce.
“In terms of money raised, it’s a significant amount of money, and we’re so grateful to everyone who took the time to donate.
“However, it’s also great exposure and awareness for us, and an opportunity to tell people a little more about our vital work.
“It was lovely to have some really positive and engaging conversations with supporters, both around the ground and in the hospitality areas.”
One of the other highlights in the build-up to the game was young fan Gracie Baldry, ten, and her family – parents James and Kim and 15-year-old brother Liam – getting the chance to meet the squad at their training base in Playford Road.
They were invited to last Thursday’s session, meeting Ipswich boss Kieran McKenna and star players including club captain Sam Morsy.
The family were then invited to join the squad for lunch, and both Gracie and Liam were presented with Town shirts.
Gracie has right-side hemiplegia cerebral palsy, as well as epilepsy, global development delay, hearing loss and the gene mutation V Factor Leiden.
She and her family have been receiving care and support for EACH for five years, at The Treehouse.
Blues chairman Mark Ashton was equally positive about the relationship with EACH.
He said: “We are proud to have such a strong relationship with EACH, which provides incredible support to young people and their families in extremely tough circumstances.
“To have the opportunity to raise awareness and vital funds at our dedicated matchday was a privilege for us all.”
Pictures: Matchday Images/ITFC