The annual Elliott Holmes Football Fun Day was held on Saturday 4 September at Istead Rise playing field, opened by the Deputy Lord Lieutenant of Gravesham, Dr Bhargawa Vasudaven. This popular event is held in memory of Elliott Holmes, and in his opening address Dr Vasudaven highlighted the importance of sport and outdoor activities in mental health. All funds raised at the event are shared between the Samaritans, Honour and Glory, the Istead Rise Park Project and the Elliott Holmes Memorial Fund, this year’s event producing a grand total of £2,384.80.
The event was bigger than last year’s and included a number of stalls on site. Some additional matches were added and were played by a wide range of ages, including dads and even grandads. The main match – Istead Rise v Meopham Railway Tavern – produced a late goal by Istead Rise which resulted in a 1-0 win for the home team. They were presented with the Elliott Holmes memorial cup for the second year running. Prior to the main match there was a one minute silence to remember Elliott and all those who have sadly taken their own lives.
The event was organised by Scott Thomas, ably assisted by Cllr Dibben. Scott was delighted with the support received from the local community. “It was great to see so many people attend and participate in supporting such a great cause, and to pay their respects to Elliott. He would be proud of us all”.
Cllr Dibben was equally delighted with the community’s support for the event. “A huge thank you to all of you for supporting the event and making the day such a success”, he said. He singled out numerous people who had made such a big contribution – Peter Scutts, Vickie Clarke, Stewart Marks, Barry and Linda Milioto, George Duffort, Jag Johal, Dawn Childs, Russell Andre, David Honeyman, Chris Warden and Richard Brown, all of whom dedicated so much to the well running of the event. “This really does show what a strong community we are here in Istead Rise”, he said.
Cllr Dibben also thanked all the local businesses and residents who had so kindly donated the many splendid raffle prizes. Some prizes are still awaiting collection – remaining tickets are 765, 895, 597, 701, 567, 215, 628, 254, 752, 641, 63, 384, 61 and 616. Please email: support@ehmf.org.uk.
Elliott’s step father, Peter Scutts, set up the Elliott Holmes Memorial Fund as a tribute to Elliott in order to help improve the health and wellbeing of young people in the local community. Working with local primary and secondary schools it aims to fund and fast track students suffering with mental health issues. If you would like to donate to the fund click here.
