Charity football match and family fun day will remember baby boy Bobby and raise funds for Samaritans

Avin a Laff Utd and Wrightys XI have been the two stand-out sides in the Melton and District Sunday League this season. Both teams have only lost once, with Avin a Laff Utd due to play their final match on Sunday, but Wrightys XI look set to win the league on goal difference.

Their rivalry will be renewed when the sides compete for the annual Bobby Barnard Charity Cup on Sunday, May 29 on the pitch near Tescos on Thorpe Road. Kick-off is at 11.30am

The match will be followed by a family fun day being held at The Welby pub on Nottingham Road where there will be a barbecue from 2pm with an outdoor bar and gazebo.

At 4pm children will be in for a treat with an entertainment show featuring a clown and face painting.

From 6pm there will be a race night before the raffle is drawn and finally The Welby’s weekly bingo and open the box will start at 8.30pm.

This year’s event, organised by Avin a Laff Utd player Lewis Barnard, will be raising funds for Samaritans.

The Bobby Barnard Charity Cup was started in memory of Lewis’ brother Luke’s and sister-in-law Sarah’s baby bob Bobby who was born sleeping on September 29, 2014, at 42 weeks.

Last year the cup was lifted by Avin a Laff Utd who beat a select XI 4-3. The inaugural event raised more than £2,100, with the bulk of the proceeds going to the stillbirth and neonatal death charity Sands.

Lewis, who works as a general administrator for local firm TruFrame, said: “After last year’s amazing success everything is in place for another great family day.

“This year we’re supporting another charity close to mine, my family’s and I’m sure many more people’s hearts in Samaritans.

“First we would like to invite everyone to come and watch a cracking and competitive game against the two stand-out sides in the Melton and District Sunday League in Avin A Laff Utd and Wrightys XI. I hope as many people as possible can make what will be a cracking day.”

Anyone who would like to help in any way or any businesses which would like to donate a raffle prize can email Lewis at [email protected]

You can also donate at https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/Lewis-Barnard1?utm_id=26