Dreams fulfilled at Old Trafford June 2012

Soccer Aid 2012 success.....

On 27 May, England took on the Rest of the World in a match full of thrills and spills in aid of UNICEF; a charity that helps saves children’s lives. Two teams of celebrities and football greats took to the hallowed turf at Old Trafford in Manchester for a chance to win the Soccer Aid trophy.

A few days before this, one of our service users left his home in Surrey to also travel up to Manchester, hoping to fulfil a lifelong dream. He had to contend with excess crowds, busy streets, slightly rowdy fans and his seizure activity but nothing was going to stop him.

On Friday he travelled by train with his support workers, he arrived at his hotel for some rest and relaxation before the big weekend ahead. Having the Saturday free he enjoyed taking in the sights and sounds Manchester has to offer; he had a huge fish n chip meal at Harry Ramsdens and enjoyed some fun in the local pub.

On Sunday, he and his support workers made the final leg of the journey to Old Trafford stadium for Soccer Aid 2012 along with 70,000 other fans. Going to the famous Manchester football ground had been an unfulfilled dream for 5 years and now, with a lot of planning and support, he was able to sit in the terraces and watch a host of stars and football heroes.

The teams were captained by Robbie Williams and Michael Sheen, who played alongside Gordon Ramsay, David Seaman, Paddy McGuiness, Olly Murs, Ben Shephard, Will Ferrell, Freddie Ljungberg, Roy Keane, Joe Calzaghe and Gerard Butler amongst others. He was especially happy to see his favourite Wayne Rooney.

The whole trip was a complete success as he had the time of his life and all the staff are proud to have helped him achieve his dream..

The day ended with England beating Rest of the World 3 – 1 and raised £4million for UNICEF.