Community Comes Together for Prostate Cancer Walking Football Event in Botley

By Parish Clerk | May 6, 2026

With thanks to Paul Read for this summary of what was an amazing an inspiring day.

On 27 April 2026, Botley played host to a fantastic community-driven Walking Football event in support of prostate cancer awareness and fundraising. The day brought together players, volunteers, local businesses, and supporters for an inspiring and successful occasion.

Strong Turnout and Community Participation

A total of 93 participants registered for the event, representing a wide range of local walking football clubs, including:

  • Botley
  • Eastleigh
  • Eastleigh Academy
  • Eastleigh Mobility
  • Gosport
  • Romsey
  • Southampton Strollers
  • Totton
  • Warsash Wanderers
  • Winchester
Our Tournament Participants

The event showcased the strength of the local walking football community and its commitment to supporting important health causes.

A Full Day of Football

The action kicked off early at 7:00am and continued through a packed 12-hour schedule, featuring 29 matches. Games varied in format, from short 20-minute mini-tournament fixtures to longer one-hour matches, offering something for everyone involved.

A highlight of the day was the mini-tournament, where eight teams competed in closely contested matches. The final between Gosport and Warsash Wanderers ended in a thrilling 3–3 draw. In a spirit of sportsmanship and camaraderie, both teams agreed to share the trophy rather than proceed to penalties.

The Founders Challenge Cup
Medals for all tournament participants

Incredible Fundraising Effort

The event proved to be a major fundraising success. Thanks to entry fees, donations, and community support:

  • £3,659 was raised via the JustGiving page
  • £887 was donated in cash on the day
  • A generous £1,000 contribution came from Sunnybank House Care Home.

Importantly, all funds raised went directly to charity. Botley Parish Council provided pitches and facilities free of charge, as well as complimentary snacks for all participants.

Local Support and Special Guests

The event was bolstered by the generosity of local businesses, who donated a wide range of prizes. Contributors included:

  • Pet Doctors
  • Medicare Aesthetics
  • Crackle Rock Brewing Co
  • Botley Mills
  • Mrs Potts by the River
  • Botley Brewery
  • The Dolphin Pub
  • The Bugle Pub
  • Macdonald Botley Park Hotel
  • Sherwoods Restaurant at Eastleigh FC
  • Hillier’s Garden Centre

Additionally, Plested Pies provided food, helping keep players and volunteers fuelled throughout the day and Marruci’s Icecreams who came along to offer some cold refreshments on what was a very warm day.

A special highlight was the appearance of Southampton FC legend Matt Le Tissier, who attended the event to show his support and engage with participants.

Matt with two Botley Walking Football Regulars Clyde and John

Volunteers Make It Happen

The success of the event was made possible by a dedicated team of organisers and volunteers. Particular thanks go to:

  • John Mundy, event organiser
  • Danny Seagrave and Paul Read for logistical and operational support
  • Alison Chapman and Paul Kelly for managing registrations
  • Ian Gregory for coordinating bookings
  • Mark Cooper for overseeing tournament results
  • Gavin for providing food throughout the day
  • Roy and the wider support team for their help behind the scenes

Special recognition also goes to the referees, including Sarah Harper, Dan Tuckey, Kevin Roberts, Ed Holmes, and Heather Kirkland, for ensuring the games ran smoothly.

A Day to Remember

The Botley Walking Football Prostate Cancer Event was more than just a sporting occasion—it was a powerful demonstration of community spirit, generosity, and teamwork. With significant funds raised and awareness increased, the event stands as a shining example of what can be achieved when people come together for a good cause.

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