The annual Andover Youth Charity Day took place on Saturday under glorious sunshine, drawing a strong crowd and raising vital funds for local causes.
The much-anticipated event brought the community together in support of the Countess of Brecknock Hospice and the development of new 3G pitches at the DH Property Stadium. By the end of the day, organisers confirmed an impressive total of £12,217.85 had been raised—surpassing last year’s figure.
A major highlight of the day was the appearance of former professional footballers, who turned out to show their support. Among them was Premier League-winning captain Wes Morgan, joined by ex-Newcastle United striker Papiss Cisse and former Everton forward Oumar Niasse. The trio featured in the headline match and were warmly received by spectators.
Proceedings began with a series of youth fixtures, showcasing the strength of local grassroots football. Streets Ahead Swifts kicked off the day against Hamble Blue, followed by the Streets Ahead Under-16s taking on MYFC Thunderbolts. The Andover New Street Under-18s Vixens then faced AFC Stoneham Under-18 Eagles in another competitive encounter.
The main event saw the Foxes take on the Vixens in an entertaining match that ended 6–2 in favour of the Foxes. Goals for the Foxes came from Tom Bird, Papiss Cisse (2), Jamie Coleman (2), and Oumar Niasse, while Rhys Mallon and Jimmy Richardson were on the scoresheet for the Vixens.
Organisers expressed their gratitude to everyone who contributed to the day’s success, including those who donated prizes, sponsored the event, purchased raffle tickets, and attended to show their support.
Half of the funds raised will go to the Countess of Brecknock Hospice, with the remaining amount supporting Andover New Street Youth’s plans to install a new 3G pitch—an investment aimed at benefiting the next generation of local footballers.
