Hundreds of people headed to Harrowby United’s Environcom Stadium on Sunday for a memorial football match in memory of Danny Walsh.
The match, which kicked off at 2pm following a minute’s applause in Danny’s memory, was organised by Danny’s cousin, Adam Grant, who had t-shirts printed with a photograph of Danny on the front and “Walshy 1” on the back.
It seemed almost everyone in attendance was wearing a tribute t-shirt - from toddlers to grandparents - and Adam told the Journal this week he sold an incredible 610 t-shirts on the day and around £2,500 was raised for Danny’s children.
Adam said: “I’m so pleased so many people turned out and showed their support.”
Adam also had a message for all those who supported the event. He said: “I would just like to thank everybody who made today, those who worked their socks off to cater for all those who turned up, all the lads who played and donated £20 each and to the Harrowby club for letting us hold the event here. Finally, everybody who turned up.
“It has been an excellent day and it just goes to show how one man brings Grantham together.”
A number of Harrowby United players took part in the match, as well as the team’s co-manager, Mark Fardell.
Asked about the size of the crowd, he said: “We expected this to be honest but it just shows what a well-liked lad he was. Everyone has come out, even people that didn’t know him.
“It’s a sad but enjoyable day.
“It’s been superb playing in the game. I don’t get my boots out very often these days but it’s nice to get together with some of the lads he used to play with.”
Deputy Mayor of Grantham and Councillor for Harrowby Ian Selby was also in attendance.
He said: “It’s an absolutely wonderful turnout. It’s nice to see so many youngsters about as well and a beautiful day to go with it.
“It’s great to see such fantastic community support.”
The match finished Warthogs 6, Long Necks 3.
Danny Walsh was killed in the early hours of July 28.
Two brothers, Ben and Sam Croft of Thorold Road, Barrowby, have been charged with murder and are due to appear at Lincoln Crown Court on October 28.
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