Annual football night aims to raise £5,000 for Willow Wood

Former Manchester City goalkeeper Alex Williams and ex-Premier League referee Roger Dilkes will host this year’s Dukinfield Football Night.

The event, now in its fifth year, aims to raise £5,000 for the Willow Wood Hospice in Ashton when it takes place on Friday November 1 at Dukinfield’s Masonic Hall. 

The duo will be joined by Manchester United and Lionesses midfielder Ella Toone and her partner Joe Bunney, whose counts Stockport County, Rochdale, Ashton United and Hyde United among his former clubs. 

Completing the lineup is Les Chapman, legendary former kitman at Manchester City whose own playing career spanned more than 20 years. 

“Over the years footballing favourites such as Martyn Buchan, Peter Barnes, Eamon O’Keefe, Trevor Ross and Tommy Booth have appeared to help raise money for the hospice,” said Mossley-based Roger. 

“We’ve raised thousands for the hospice over the years and many people have a real connection with the work the hospice does. It touches the life of nearly every family at some part of their lives.” 

“The Football Night always sells out early and the tickets get snapped up. I take my hat off to these sportspeople that give up their time for free to entertain the 200 plus audience.”  

Alex, who has an MBE for services to young people and a pitch name in his honour at City’s Etihad Campus, will also be promoting his autobiography, I Saw You Standing Alone, with proceeds going to charity. 

“I miss playing in football games and anyone involved football will always tell you that actual playing is the best feeling of all,” he said. “I ended my playing career through injury, but I was fortunate to become a sports coach and that was also fulfilling.” 

Tickets for the event are available on 0161 718 7911.