Amersham Town FC host charity football match in player's memory

Russell Wiseman was a much-loved member of the local community and a keen footballer who was one of the founding members of AFC Amersham – playing for the club in the Wycombe and District League for nine seasons.

Whilst travelling in South America last year, Russell became ill and was diagnosed with stomach cancer. Sadly, just ten weeks later, he passed away at the age of 37.

A group of five friends have been inspired to organise a charity match in memory of his friend to raise money for the charity Social Link, who care for adults with learning disabilities. Russell’s sister Sarah lives with learning disabilities and has received incredible support from the charity.

Russell’s parents said: “The day before Russell died he turned to me and said ‘Of course you know that Sarah is the victim in all of this’, I held his hand and said that I don’t think so, he said ‘she is because I was always going to be there for her and look after her when you and dad have gone’.

“He was more concerned about Sarah’s future than the fact he was dying. Russell was an exceptionally special young man.

“The day he died Wendy Dunn the CEO of Social Link and friend brought Sarah and her house-mate Chris in to see him in the hospital, he was so happy to see them and pleased and grateful to Wendy. He spoke to Wendy and asked her to help look out for Sarah.”

To raise funds for the work Social Link does in the local community, Amersham Town FC will host a special match between Sheeny’s Wiseman XI and AFC Amersham on May 11.

Alongside the football, there will also be a number of great activities on the day, including: a BBQ and bar, a raffle and auction, a putting challenge, a magician, children’s face painting and a ‘tots’ disco.

Adult tickets are priced at £5, with under 16s going free. Visit www.facebook.com/events/316829798992034/ for more information.