A CHARITY football match which raised hundreds of pounds for Mind-in-Furness and Furness carers has been deemed a success by organisers and attendees.

On October 10, Barrow and Walney Select (BAWS) XI took on internationally renowned footballers (and trade unionists) on the shores of Walney Island.

They have raised more than £600 for the two local charities whilst enjoying a brilliant day out.

Organiser of the event Alec Proffitt said: "It was a great event and all the players enjoyed being a part of a great day.

"The mayor kicked us off and the Barrow and Walney Select XI survived a tight first half to go on to win the match 7-3. A few hardy souls, including Michael Cassells representing Mind-in-Furness, watched on and the mayor stayed for the whole match.

"We then enjoyed Barrow AFC vs Leyton Orient before having some food and drink at the Robin Hood.

"Huge thanks to the mayor, mayoress, Damo Rose from the Robin Hood for putting on food and drink, and Aidan Murphy from Barrow Forward for helping with the hire of the pitch. So far, we have raised just shy of £600.

"There are plans for a return leg in Bootle, Liverpool."

Councillor Helen Wall, mayor of Barrow, admitted she was shocked to get the call to be involved, let alone doing the kick-off considering her claim she had only kicked about 20 footballs in her life.

"It was a particularly important kick for me, and I am grateful to all the guys who came from Bootle to take part, as well as those from Barrow.

"It was a surprise that Alec got in touch with me about this and then he told me I would be doing the kick-off as well.

"I was thoroughly delighted to have my purse on me as well as I was able to provide the coin for the toss.

"They are a great bunch, and everyone had a great game.

"It has been a long time since I last watched a game of football, but I had a really good time.

"They also raised a colossal amount of money."

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