Supporters fundraising stories

Paul’s Charity Football Match

Find out how Paul, who works at Ace Grading in Banbury, transformed a small kick about into an exhilarating charity football match.

Name: Paul Barnes
Event: Charity Football Fundraiser, June 2026
Venue: Adderbury Park FC

Amount raised: £5,052

Why did you choose to support Katharine House Hospice with your fundraising?

The teams have their own stories, but in general we have all had family or friends that have benefited from the incredible support of Katharine House Hospice.

Tell us a bit about your event or activity

We are a group of lads that play football every week. It started with 8 players, then became 10, then 15, then 20 and we decided why not put on a full 11 a side match between departments. Then we decided we could turn it into an incredible event. But it all stemmed from a group of lads who wanted to have a kick about.

Paul Barnes Charity Football Greenteam 1000px

Paul Barnes Charity Football Purpleteam 1000px

What tips would you pass onto other fundraisers?

Remember what you’re doing it for. There were many moments where I became slightly overwhelmed with the project. But I kept reminding myself just how important it was. I kept pushing with help from my incredible colleagues. Without the players and the support from the Katharine House fundraising team, the whole thing wouldn’t have been possible.

How much did you raise?

Just over £5,000.

Is there anything else you would like to tell us? 

Unfortunately, I broke my leg 4 days before the event. I was meant to play up front for the green team. I was absolutely heartbroken. I became the manager and the emotions in the changing room before the game were unbelievable. When Sarah came down to tell us why we were all there it just made everyone so determined to give it their all.

I am so incredibly proud of every individual that put on a pair of boots and endured 90 minutes of cramp and fatigue with some nice football moments in between. It has been an honour and a privilege to represent these boys in the fundraising aspect of this event.

Could you give us a quote from either yourself or someone that attends your event? 

I’ll give you the best moment. Jack went down on the floor, rolling, grabbing his ankle and shouting in pain. People started to go on the pitch to see if he was okay. After the ref blew his whistle for a foul, he stands up, jumps and starts laughing. His performance was so convincing, everyone burst out laughing and that was quickly followed by a yellow card for diving. Truly hilarious!

Feeling inspired?

If you have been inspired by Paul’s story, why not set up your own team challenge event to help raise vital funds for Katharine House Hospice. Check out our A-Z of ideas, plus plenty of other tips in our supporters fundraising pack to help get you started.

Find out more