York City charity match tribute to Leon

6:20pm Wednesday 20th August 2008

Comments (0)   Have your say »

FIVE York City legends will roll back the years in a charity tribute match for much-loved Leon Hicks.

Andy McMillan, Nigel Pepper, Jon McCarthy, Wayne Hall and Tony Canham will sprinkle Haxby United’s pitch with stardust at a Legends v Current Team game.

The fixture will form the centrepiece of a full day of events organised to raise funds for special needs charity SNAPPY.

Leon, formerly of Bell Farm, York, spent seven years as a regular at SNAPPY. Before the game kicks off, a minute’s silence will be held in honour of the 12-year-old, who died last month.

In the aftermath of his death, Leon’s parents, Steve and Sarah Gamble, pledged to raise funds in his memory.

They also urged people to make donations to SNAPPY in memory of their loved one.

The link between Leon and Haxby United is Mick Watson, Steve’s step-dad.

Mick is United’s reserve team manager, and, speaking to the club chairman, Chris Watkinson, asked about organising a fun run for SNAPPY.

Chris said: “I told Mick we could do better than that, and things have grown from there. There will be loads going on, we’ve got face-painting, henna tattoos, a bouncy castle and a strongman contest, and all that is on top of the football.

“We are doing a race night at Haxby Working Men’s Club. Everything raised will go to SNAPPY. It is a great charity doing great work. We are glad to help out in Leon’s memory.”

Sarah said: “We think it is brilliant that the club are doing this for SNAPPY.

“They did so much for Leon and for us, because he loved going there and we were given a bit of respite.

“They need and deserve every penny they get, so hopefully loads of people will turn out on the day and make it a big success.”

The football fun day starts at 1pm on Saturday, September 6, at the Ethel Ward Playing Fields. The game will kick off at about 2.30pm. Admission is free, but bucket collections will be held on the day.

* The club is seeking sponsors for individual players appearing at the fun day. Businesses or individuals interested can phone Chris on 07748763139.