Generous fans give Â£15k boost to club's charity

Volunteers were on hand to collect cash for Albion in the Community at the Seagulls' home game at the weekend

Albion in the Community (AITC) held a bucket collection before and after the 1-1 draw, while a silent auction took place in the American Express Community Stadium lounges prior to the match.

Supporters were encouraged to bring a £1 donation with them to the stadium, and the message hit home.

The cash will help fund the charity’s award-winning inclusive football sessions for people with a disability and other work across Sussex.

As well as the bucket collection and silent auction, AITC also used the matchday to highlight some of its work and celebrate the achievements of a number of its players.

Reece Meyer, who plays for Brighton & Hove Albion Down’s Syndrome FC, was interviewed on the big screen before kick-off and also selected the game’s Man of the Match, while Ben Moore, who attends AITC’s sessions for junior amputees, was among the mascots.

Oli Turnball, a regular at the charity’s session for people with learning disabilities, was introduced to fans at half-time, and Perry Powell, an AITC coach with an inspirational story, was featured in the match programme.

AITC is the largest provider of football opportunities for people with a disability in the area and runs 25 regular sessions throughout the county. These sessions can cost between £2,800 and £5,000 a year to run.

Matt Dorn, the charity’s chief executive officer, said: “Once again we have been blown away by the generosity of Albion fans.

“Every season without fail, Brighton & Hove Albion fans show their support for the club’s charity. The amount raised on Sunday will make a big difference to the charity so, on behalf of everyone at AITC and the many thousands of people we work with each year: thank you.”

The shirts worn by Brighton and Hove Albion FC players during the match will now be donated to AITC and auctioned online, meaning the total raised will increase further.

For more information on AITC and its work – or to find out how to fundraise for the charity – visit: www.albioninthecommunity.org.uk