Charity collection at the Boleyn Ground over Remembrance Weekend raises funds for Blesma

9 November 2015

West Ham United FC hosted veterans and fundraisers from Blesma, The Limbless Veterans at their Premier League match against Everton at the Boleyn Ground on Saturday.

Blesma Members and volunteers were joined by members of 16 Air Assault Brigade to collect donations and were met with generous support from the West Ham fans. The total amount raised on the day was £676. The Blesma contingent also formed part of the Guard of Honour that led the minute of silence held before the start of the match in honour of those who have fallen in conflict.

As an associate charity of the club, Blesma, based in nearby Chadwell Heath, were invited to the match as part of Remembrance weekend and moving forward, Blesma Members will be invited to meet players and take part in workshops with the West Ham United Foundation.

The Foundation’s Chief Executive, Joe Lyons, spoke about the partnership going forward: “It was fantastic to have the Members of Blesma joining us at Saturday’s match and it was so fitting that they be recognised on Remembrance Weekend. The work carried out by their organisation is so essential and we’re delighted to be supporting their efforts and looking at new ways we can work together to improve the quality of life of its Members.

“Our Learn to Coach programme will offer their participants opportunities to gain their coaching qualifications and to develop their journey with the West Ham United Foundation on a more long-term basis.”

Associate Director of Fundraising, Barbara Warner said: “We are delighted to have formed a new partnership with West Ham United FC and would like to thank Joe Lyons, the Foundation and all at West Ham for giving us this brilliant opportunity.  On behalf of all our veterans who will benefit, thank you so much to all the fans for their generosity and thank you to everyone for making us so welcome.”

Blesma, The Limbless Veterans is the national charity for all limbless service men and women, their widows and dependants. It was formed in the years following the First World War and became a national charity in 1932.

 

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