Darren Deady Foundation and GMP officer take part in charity match

The match was played at Daisy Hill Football Club between representatives of veterans’ charity The Darren Deady Foundation and members of Greater Manchester Police.

Founded by his mother Julie, brother Daniel, and close friends, the foundation operates in honour of former Kingsman Darren Deady, who tragically lost his life in 2010 while serving in Afghanistan.

Representatives of the Royal British Legion (Image: Westhoughton Town Council)

Former Westhoughton Mayor Gillian Wroe said: “A heartfelt thanks go to the Darren Deady Foundation for inviting me, and my Mayoress Cllr Deirdre McGeown, to this wonderful community event.

“Before the match kick off the teams were joined on the pitch by Darren Deady’s mum Julie Hall and members of the DD Association, Westhoughton Royal British Legion, cadets, marching band, the mini police, the Mayoress and me, Phil Brickell MP and Cllr John McHugh.

“The event was well attended with families and groups taking advantage of the dry weather to visit the stalls, enjoy the inflatables, listen to the music, get something to eat and drink and of course watch the football!

Marching band at the event (Image: Westhoughton Town Council)

“I hope that all the hard work that went into organising the day has raised a lot of money for the charity.”

This was Cllr Wroe’s final engagement as Westhoughton mayor before she handed the chain over to Cllr Sarita Chohan on May 5 – it was also her hundredth engagement in total.

GMP won a narrow victory in the event, outscoring the Darren Deady reps 3-2.

The Darren Deady foundation provides essential support for veterans in the area, including support services, advice, short-term accommodation provision, and education.

Army vehicle at the event (Image: Westhoughton Town Council)

The group also promotes social inclusion amongst veterans and HM forces reservists to help them reintegrate into civilian life and avoid social exclusion.

Other services include food bank assistance, debt relief, and help on filling out forms, all in honour of Darren.