DESPITE being divided into east and west, Goostrey villagers were united in raising money for a charity close to their hearts – and MINDs – on May 18.

Last Sunday, members of The Goostrey Friendly Football Club (GFFC) played an 11-a-side charity match in memory of football enthusiast Simon Weston, who dies shortly before Christmas last year.

The match, which took place on the Goostrey Playing Fields on Boothbed Lane, pitted the west of the village against the east. The east came out on top with a 5-2 win, and Simon’s son Joe scored two of the winning team’s goals.

Simon’s wife Susie presented the triumphant team with the Simon Weston trophy, and more importantly, £335 was raised for MIND, the mental health organisation which was Simon’s family’s chosen charity.

David Hext, who took over Simon’s role as manager of GFFC, said: “It was a great occasion and, thanks to the fine weather, many young children were in the watching crowd making it a lovely family event.

“Following the match we all enjoyed a buffet and drinks in the pavilion after which the trophy was presented. Next year we plan to have a match for the children of the village too, which will precede the adults’ game.”

The Goostrey Friendly Football Club play every Monday night on the AstroTurf tennis courts in the village. Some players are as young as 14 and their oldest player is a sprightly 60.

Anyone who is interested in joining the club should contact David on davidhext@talktalk.net.