Sue's memory lives on as football tournament marks 20 years

Sue’s memory lives on as football tournament marks 20 years

In 2000, the family of Sue Parry helped set-up a six-a-side football tournament in memory of the 24-year-old sports fanatic from Hereford who died the previous year.                           

Fast-forward two decades and the now-annual event is within a rasping half volley of raising £100,000 for Bartestree-based St Michael’s Hospice.               

This summer’s tournament, to be held at Hereford Leisure Centre on Sunday 27th June, will include a music festival for the first time alongside the football which features categories for men, women and juniors.

It’s all a far cry from the early days of the fledgling fundraiser back in 2000 though.

‘We had no idea how to organise the event so we approached the late Ralph Farmer, and Lyn Gummer from the Hospice’s Fundraising team, for help,’ said Sue’s mum Sandra.

‘The tournament’s journey has been extraordinary, surpassing all our expectations.

‘I’m just so grateful to everyone who takes part each year.‘

Sue’s family are always there and are extremely touched by the support given.’

Sue Parry received care from St Michael’s before she died in July 1999 after contracting cancer.

As a keen Chelsea fan, Sandra said a football-based fundraiser seemed a fitting tribute to her wonderful daughter.

‘There is nothing worse than losing a child,’ she said. 

‘Sue was a kind, inspirational person who was full of life.

‘It was from Sue and the time I spent looking after her that I decided to go into nursing.

‘Sue’s family feels passionate about supporting our Hospice and each year the goal is to raise awareness of how reliant St Michael’s is on the generous support of the community.’

To take part in this year’s tournament, sign up here