Leaders plan marathon powerplay

Promotion-chasing North Ferriby United are planning a marathon 48 hour five-a-side football fundraiser to support their local 'Power-chair' football club.

Taking place on the 4G pitch at the Evo-Stik Northern Premier League club's Rapid Solicitors Stadium in June, the two day event is being organised after a plea for help from the East Riding Electric Eels PFC, Hull and East Riding's first Power-chair club for players with powered wheelchairs.

The Villagers hope more than 100 team will play in one hour slots through two nights starting at 5pm on Friday 21 June and finishing at the same time on Sunday.

North Ferriby United's Welfare Officer Richard Hodgskinson urged footballers of all ages and abilities to get involved for such a good cause. Pictured alongside Eels manager Andy Fox and members of his squad with a sample of the new away kit the Villagers have already donated to the club, he said: "I was lucky to be able to watch one of the Eels' training sessions and was really inspired by the commitment, skill, team spirit and sheer joy in taking part that the players showed.

"As a Community Charter Standard club, North Ferriby United is delighted to be able to contribute to establishing this much-needed community sporting facility in the area. I hope as many teams as possible will take part in our marathon five aside match and raise a considerable amount of money to help the Electric Eels!"

The Villagers are swinging into action after responding to a call for aid from Kai Gill, assistant/player coach with the Eels who compete in teams of four from powered wheelchairs using a 13" ball.

Gill said: "The Eels only formed in December 2012 and given the nature of the sport the club require some funding to purchase the specialist equipment needed to continue training. This equipment includes more chairs, training kit, away kit and a hoist."

"I would like to thank North Ferriby United for their support as it is great to have a club like Ferriby backing us. I hope as many people as possible will sign up to play in the five aside tournament and we can get the 100 teams we need to keep going for 48 hours. If you can help, please get involved!"

Further information and details on how to enter the tournament can be obtained from Richard Watts on 07814 836504 or Chris Holbrough on 07866 125242. Alternatively, email: info@northferribyunitedfc.co.uk.

Additional information on the East Riding Electric Eels, including training times and how to donate, can be obtained by contacting the club's Fundraising Coordinator, Paul Wade on 07961 808165) or via email at: paul@alps-uk.com.