Owls fan James Mair received the perfect birthday gift last weekend when he played and won at his beloved Hillsborough!
As a special surprise birthday treat, lifelong Wednesday fan James was signed up by his dad Ian to take part in the Sheffield Wednesday Charity Cup, the unique sporting challenge that raises money for two local charities - St Luke’s and the Sheffield Wednesday Community Programme.
Two teams - home and away sides headed by ex-Wednesday stars John Pearson and Jon Newsome - competed for the silverware and helped take the fundraising total to a hugely impressive £15,000.
The home side, including birthday boy James and Reverend and the Makers lead singer Jon McClure, triumphed 5-0 but the overall winners were St Luke’s and the Community Programme.
As well as playing on the pitch, the teams also enjoyed full use of the Hillsborough facilities and changing rooms, received a SWFC shirt, enjoyed a meal after the game for themselves and a guest in the 1867 Suite and went home with a souvenir team photograph and medal.
“This really was the perfect gift for a real Owls fan like James,” said St Luke’s Corporate Fundraising Manager Jack Kidder.
“It was a truly unique opportunity to step out onto the famous Wednesday pitch and be part of a memorable sporting occasion which will also help make an enormous difference to the lives of St Luke’s patients and their families.”
SWFCCP Corporate Social Responsibility Manager Spencer Taylor added: “A great day was had by all and not least St Luke’s and the Community Programme as fundraising is such a vital strand for both organisations.
“The Charity Cup is a fantastic initiative and we would all like to thank everyone who took part for their support.”