Rolls-Royce football tournaments in memory of Hucknall sons

As international teams were still battling it out for the World Cup, football teams from across the Dispatch district were going head to head for fundraising purposes.

Two different tournaments were held on consecutive weekends at Rolls-Royce Leisure in memory of three Hucknall sons.

The first was held on Sunday 6th July in the name of National Academy students, Harrison Carlin and Jeff Townley, who were both killed whilst riding their bikes, aged just 12.

The second tournament and family event took place on Saturday 12th July in memory of Craig Dowhan, who tragically lost his life in a car accident earlier this year.

Both events were successful in not only celebrating the lives of the three but in raising money for some local worthy causes.

The tournament was fantastic,” said organiser of the first event, Jamie Brough. “We raised £1,671 which is a great result.

“Huge thanks go to the individuals who put a team together and to everyone who attended. It was a great turn out and really showed what a close community Hucknall is.

“As well as an adult tournament this year, which was won by the Station Hotel who beat Rolls-Royce vets 3-2 in an entertaining final, we also held a junior event,” added Jamie who is the football co-ordinator at Rolls-Royce. “The two junior tournaments were won by Rolls-Royce in the u13s section and the u12s section was shared between Linby Rangers and Rolls-Royce after a 1-1 draw in the final.

“Neither team could take advantage in the penalty shoot out so decided to share the trophy, which was really in keeping with the spirit of the day.”

The money will be divided equally between the Put Things Right, cycle safety campaign and the Queen’s Medical Centre, selected by the boys’ parents.

It was an emotional event for Chris Dowhan who helped organise the second event to celebrate his son’s life by inviting Craig’s friends and his own footballing contacts to play.

Chris is the former assistant coach at Hucknall Town and was reunited with former club manager Roger Dawkins during the day as the money raised will be donated to the Battle Batten campaign for Roger’s grandsons, Freddie and Louie.

“Over 250 people supported Craig’s day with £1,352.66 going to Freddie and Louie’s campaign which is an unbelievable amount,” said Chris. “Andrew and Sarah brought the boys along which was very special.

“There was a wonderful atmosphere and at times it was very emotional but we did get great comfort from the day and want to thank everybody for supporting us.”