A HEREFORD charity supported by Prince Charles may be forced to reduce its services because of the recession.
But help could be on the way for Breast Cancer Haven – and from another group used to beating the odds.
Former Bulls boss Colin Addison wants his Hereford United giantkillers to reform at a Haven golf tournament on May 22.
The part-timers made footballing history in 1972 when a Ronnie Radford strike inspired a 2-1 win over Newcastle United.
Two players – Tony Gough and Fred Potter – have signed up for the event at Wormsley, and more should follow. The charity is having to reduce its therapy sessions for cancer sufferers because of fewer donations and fund-raising events.
Gill Boase, Haven supporter, suggested the tournament as the charity has never held a golf fund-raiser. She has been thrilled with the response, and thinks getting the Bulls back together could be a major draw.
“I’ve known Colin for a long time and he’s really enthusiastic about the whole thing. Haven is a national charity but they’re also local, and need our help,” she said.
An auction featuring signed football shirts and paintings has been arranged, while Bengry’s Mazda will give away an MX5 to anyone who gets a hole-in-one on certain tees. Others have been sponsored, while Westons Cider and Hobsons Brewery will offer refreshments.
Mr Addison, former HUFC club manager, is hopeful of reuniting the giantkillers on the day, and has been in contact with Ron Atkinson and other stars.
“It’s all for a good cause and I hope we get a good response from the other boys such as Ronnie and Ricky George,” he said.
Haven, officially opened by its patron the Prince of Wales four years ago, has branches in London and Leeds and has offered 73,000 appointments in the last 10 years.
More than 5,000 people across the UK have attended the free 12-part sessions, which cost £750,000 a year to provide.
The cancellation of major fund-raising events in London have forced the charity to halve sessions, while participants may be asked for donations.
Susan Dark, chief executive, said the changes would not affect care, but admits the charity needs a hand.
“I don’t want to do anything more draconian, but we need the help of the community. We have an incredible group of people in Hereford who are so community minded – we just need more people to help us,” she said.
Rachel Balfour, from the Hereford branch, said the cuts were a preventative measure. “We’re not closing or anything like that, we just need more money,” she said.
Teams must pay £140 to enter the golf tournament, with details at havenmayball.co.uk/golf. For details, call Breast Cancer Haven on 01432 361050 or visit breastcancerhaven.org.uk Bengry Motors will give away an MX5.
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