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CLUB FEATURES

White Notley & Galleywood Youth FC

FOOTBALL FUN FACTORY

Explain how they are coaching children in a fun environment across the UK

JANUARY 2024 ISSUE 15

This Months Content

Team Message Happy New Year to you all, The Grassroots team wish you a successful 2024. We hope you have enjoyed the break which for many of us has been extended by the weather & it looks set to continue. I’ve often wondered if a mid-season break should be considered as more often than not the break is forced upon us. Could the season start earlier & finish a little later? I’d like to welcome the Essex County FA to Grassroots Magazine; we are so pleased to add articles & news each month. Please check out Home - Essex FA for more County News.

White Notley FC

Page 4

Footbal Fun Factory

Page 8

Kit Aid

Page 12

Gallywood Youth FC

Page 14

Man v Fat

Page 20

Adult Leagues

Page 24

Youth Leagues

Page 25

Essex FA

Page 26

Match Fit

Page 32

Final Whistle

Page 36

Thank you to Galleywood Youth & Notley for giving us the first team features of the season. If you would like to feature your Club please get in touch at grassrootsmag@btinternet.com.

Good Luck Grassroots Team

Page 8

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0 to 50 in two years!! White Notley Football Club has been a well-established club in the rural village of Faulkbourne in Essex for 75 years! But with no existing junior section….it was time to invest in the future and the next generation of future footballers. What started as a conversation between two neighbours rapidly saw the growth from no youth section to three youth sides over just two seasons, accommodating approximately 44 new budding football stars and providing opportunities for 6 eager new Managers (0 to 50 in two years!). And what a journey it has been and still is… The ‘inclusive of all abilities’ attitude of the youth section resulted in the transfer of existing teams to their new ‘football home’ as well as the recruitment of new players from the local village. This meant new friendships were forged and more kids got the chance to be a part of ‘the beautiful game’. The season started with a new kit and a badge on the chest that the kids are proud to wear… the White Notley Hornets, Lions and the Tigers were born! As the journey and the challenges of starting a new youth section unfolded, we rapidly realised It was never about winning, but being part of the ‘football family’, being part of something the players and managers are proud of. It is about the enjoyment of taking part, having fun and being part of a team. Matchdays end with hotdogs in the clubhouse and often the odd ‘refreshments from the bar’ enjoyed by the parents. Visiting teams look forward to coming to play at White Notley, they are greeted with a warm welcome, a smile and facilities that all parents and players are proud of.

However, starting and funding a new youth section comes at a cost…. The generosity of our sponsors, SH Leisure Services, CSS Recruitment and Autosmart Paintworx combined with the tireless support of the parents and the youth committee sees the club go from strength to strength. We have organised fundraising days, easter egg hunts, bingo nights, quiz nights, race nights and penalty shoot outs……all supported by players, parents, guardians, carers, and the local village residents. The youth section received FA accreditation at the end of the season which acknowledges the fact that we are providing the right environment for safe and well led football for children. Through the provision of providing the correct environment we have now started to reap the rewards with all three teams showing a vast improvement over the season, proving the fact that all kids need is a little help, a little hope and a coach that believes in them!

Long may it continue.

The Tigers

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The Lions

The Hornets

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Wilvale Rangers FC - Kit Donation to the national charity KitAid As we cheer in the New Year, an extra special cheer, must go up for the work of the staff and players of Wilvale Rangers FC. Their generosity, and a care to share the love of the game, is shown in the delight of players who have now received Wilvale Rangers FC old kit donation in Zambia. January 2024 - Kpiri Mposhi, Rural Zambia, Youth Development Team kitted out.

Grassroots Magazine February 2023- Issue 4, GrassRoots Magazine Feb Issue 4 by Grassrootsmagonline - Issuu

first brought you the news of Wilvale Rangers FC and their work to get a super kit donation together. Whilst refreshing their own kit at this time last year, Club Secretary Justin Walker and the young Wilvale Rangers players got together their old kit, counted and folded, ready for donation to KitAid. Here Justin is making the original kit handover in February 2023

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Wilvale Rangers FC, based at Chancellors Park, Chelmsford are an inclusive football club for young people, with the onus on training for enjoyment as well as technique. They have a strong collective ethos, building footballing teams as opposed to footballing individuals. Their old kit now has an extended life and new impetus for supporting more young peoples development in the game we love. Though many miles away, the young people of Kpiri Mposhi, Rural Zambia wear the Wilvale Rangers FC badge with pride. The national charity, KitAid, now in its 26th year, works with projects supporting some of the most disadvantaged and vulnerable communities in the world - projects supporting education, skills training and those seeking to prevent harm. We know the power of football and its force for good in people’s lives and hence the KitAid strapline – ‘It’s more than Just a Shirt …’ Across Essex, we have over 1,000 clubs and over 4,600 teams (Essex FA, 2023). The commitment to the game across our area - Villages, Towns, Cities and London Boroughs - is immense. The potential of unwanted kit out there looking for a new home is huge. It would be great if we could make your unwanted kit & equipment count in 2024 - spreading smiles for the love of the game. If you think your Club has, or will have, unwanted adult or youth kits and football equipment to donate, please contact KitAid by email on kitaidcharity@gmail.com or email your local KitAid volunteer on barrie.2014@yahoo.co.uk

Barrie Neal KitAid Volunteer

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Galleywood Youth Football Club, where passion for the beautiful game thrives, and young talents are nurtured! As a prominent youth football organisation, we are dedicated to providing an enriching and inclusive environment for children to develop their skills, build character, and foster a lifelong love for football.

At Galleywood, we understand the importance of starting early, which is why we proudly host a foundation football program specifically designed for kids aged 4 to 6 years. Through this program, we introduce the youngest members of our community to the joys of the sport while focusing on fundamental skills, teamwork, and, most importantly, having fun! Our experienced coaches create a supportive atmosphere encouraging each child to grow, learn, and express themselves on the pitch. In addition to our foundation football program, we are delighted to participate in the Weetabix Wildcats initiative. This fantastic program offers young girls and boys aged 4 to 11 the opportunity to engage in football activities and develop their skills in a friendly and inclusive environment. We firmly believe in providing equal opportunities for all children, and the Weetabix Wildcats program allows us to embrace and empower aspiring young footballers. Furthermore, we are proud to offer Soccability, a program that promotes inclusivity and ensures that children with disabilities can enjoy the beautiful game. Soccability embraces the power of football to break barriers and create a space where every child can participate and thrive. Our dedicated coaches work closely with participants, tailoring the sessions to their needs and fostering a sense of belonging within the team.

Galleywood Magpies U13’s Part of the 41 teams at youth level, we currently have 2 girls teams built from our successful wildcats' program. Galleywood Magpies played their part in a boy's league last Season & are now part of the Essex County Girls League, for next season we are trying to expand so we are looking for girls in school years 6, 7 & 8 to join our squad. Our girls are a fun and welcoming group of players that have the will to work hard and have fun whilst playing competitive matches . Please see our advert for more information.

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At Galleywood Youth Football Club, we are committed to nurturing young talent, fostering a love for football, and instilling important values such as teamwork, respect, and sportsmanship. Join us on this exciting journey as we celebrate the joy of the game and create memories that will last a lifetime.

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We would like to thank our sponsors M J Ferguson & SJB Flood Lighting Design for their support this Season.

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"Chris Berry Media, Freelance Videographer & Editor available to hire in the. I specialise in all things nonleague, with 6 years of football media experience, and I'm looking to help promote teams at all levels! I'm based in Essex, but I am willing to travel for the right opportunity. If you want your game filmed and a highlights package, put together afterwards, then please get in touch by emailing cberrymedia@gmail.com or text 07447 458405" https://twitter.com/messages/media/1716932374142083238

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MAN v FAT Football could

be just the thing you’re looking for!

MAN v FAT has helped men up and down the UK to lose over 600,000lbs in weight – including in several clubs across Essex.

Recent research from the National Food Strategy review estimates that every unit of body mass index put on by every individual raises the UK’s annual healthcare costs by £16.** Christopher Johnstone has lost seven stone with the help of MAN v FAT Football. He is now enjoying being able to play football again, as well as the improvements in his physical and mental health. Chris explains, “Before I joined MAN v FAT Football, I hadn’t played football in five or six years, and I was surprised at the level of the players and how competitive the games are.

“I had recently moved house for work and was feeling isolated as I didn’t know anyone in this area. This seems to be a common situation with people I have met in MAN v FAT and the programme gives you the opportunity to meet new people. It’s great to enjoy the sport and benefit from the health improvements, while not being judged in the group about weight, as we are all in the same boat.

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If 2024 is the year that you’re planning to get into shape,

“MAN v FAT had a hugely positive

effect on my lifestyle. My health has improved dramatically, I am able to enjoy a more active life with my kids and it has also improved my mental health by giving me more confidence. It has also helped me in situations that used to cause me anxiety. “There is still a way to go in both my physical and mental health, but I am now confronting things better than I was before. I’m looking forward to the future!”

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Aimed at men with a BMI of higher than 27.5, MAN v FAT Football has more than 8,000 players taking part in over 150 clubs across the UK. The programme was created by Andrew Shanahan, who, fed-up with traditional weight loss classes primarily aimed at women, decided to develop a programme that combines the beautiful game with achievable weight loss goals for men. Before matches, players are weighed, this is followed by a 30-minute game of six-a-side football, with extra goal bonuses awarded to teams based on their weight loss. Weight loss and match scores then contribute to teams’ league positions within a club. MAN v FAT Football Head of Football, Richard Crick explains: “We are so proud of the progress made by the players. The men involved are genuinely changing their lives for the better by improving their physical and mental health, while making new friends and having fun in the process. “MAN v FAT isn’t a lose-fat-fast programme, we encourage body positivity and losing weight at a healthy, sustainable pace. While weight loss is the key goal for players, the programme is perfect for men who want to get back into playing football after time away from the game and improve their fitness gradually, without the stress of getting a group together and booking pitches. In addition to football sessions, MAN v FAT players also receive offthe-pitch support including healthy meal recipe ideas and tips on general fitness. Players also get full access to MAN v FAT online gym, so they can train in their own time at home. To find your closest MAN v FAT Football club, visit:

https://www.manvfatfootball.org/Leagues/Find ALeague

gives back

Grassroots Magazine is committed to giving back to grassroots football and we are excited to sponsor a talented young player Kaci Crook & an equally talented youth team in Broomfield Lions U13’s for this season.

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Grassroots

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LOCAL ADULT

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LEAGUES

CLICK THE BADGE TO VISIT LEAGUE AND VIEW THE LATEST NEWS AND RESULTS.

LEAGUES

CLICK THE BADGE TO VISIT LEAGUE AND VIEW THE LATEST NEWS AND RESULTS.

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Lorem Ipsum dolor sit LOCAL YOUTH

grassroots magazine 26

ESSEX FA PLAYERS CAN HELP TO SHAPE NEW ESSEX FOOTBALL STRATEGY Local Grassroots Participants Provide Input and Feedback Football players (and parents of players), clubs, leagues, coaches and referees can access a short online survey until the end of January which provides an opportunity to play a crucial part in helping to shape a new four-year Essex County FA strategy. Key grassroots stakeholders can contribute towards future projects through the survey, available at www.essexfa.com, which follows on from The FA’s ‘Our Game’ Consultation in 2023. This new Essex survey will inform about local-level priorities and build on the work delivered in the 2021-24 ‘#MovingForward’ Strategy, forming a set of progressive and ambitious goals up to 2028. The FA’s ‘Our Game’ enabled national engagement with all stakeholders, including in-person feedback events. Now, central to the County FA’s research, is the perspective of those at the heart of the Essex grassroots game, whose ideas and contributions will be key when formulating the strategy. The short survey is split into sections, discussing elements such as development programmes. To complete the survey, and to make your contribution, visit www.essexfa.com. Feedback is anonymous and it takes just a few minutes to complete the questions. Participants aged under 18 should complete the survey alongside a parent/guardian. News and information is also shared on Twitter/X by @EssexCountyFA and by searching for ‘EssexFootball’ on Facebook.

Essex ‘Volunteering in Football’ and ‘Referee Long Service’ Awards

Local grassroots football legends will be recognised and rewarded through the Essex County FA ‘Volunteering in Football’ and ‘Referee Long Service’ Awards in 2024, with a nomination deadline of Friday 12th January fast approaching.

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DEADLINE APPROACHES FOR LOCAL GRASSROOTS AWARD NOMINATIONS

Years of dedicated efforts in the name of local sport will be celebrated, and individuals qualify if they have given at least ten years of service to football in Essex. This can be as an honorary secretary of an affiliated club or competition, as a registered referee, or in any other capacity felt to be appropriate, not including playing or managerial service. There are four categories: Award of Merit: The nominee shall have given at least 40 years of outstanding honorary service to football in Essex, or in any other capacity felt appropriate (not including playing, refereeing or managerial service), and who is approved by the Executive Council of the Essex County FA. Outstanding Service Award: The nominee shall have given outstanding service to football in Essex over a minimum of 30 years as an administrator or referee or in any other capacity felt appropriate, not including playing or managerial service. Exemplary Service Award: The nominee shall have given exemplary service to football in Essex over a minimum of 20 years as an administrator or referee or in other capacity felt appropriate, not including playing or managerial service. Long Service Certificate: The nominee shall have given at least ten years of service to football in Essex as an honorary secretary of an affiliated club or competition, a registered referee or in any other capacity felt to be appropriate, not including playing or managerial service. Lana Gillard, Essex County FA Football Development Officer, is looking forward to seeing more committee members and referees receiving well-deserved plaudits: “Grassroots football just wouldn’t exist without the selfless hard work of many volunteers. We’re very proud to be able to say thank you through these awards, and to recognise the overall workforce in our region.” Find out more about how to nominate at www.essexfa.com. You can also interact with @EssexCountyFA on Twitter/X and by searching for ‘EssexFootball’ on Facebook.

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Football Fitness Club The Football Fitness Team Explain

"The Goal Within: How Football Fitness Scores Big for Mental Health" Football, known for its physical prowess, agility, and teamwork, is not just about what happens on the field; it’s a powerful ally for mental health too. The benefits of football fitness extend far beyond physical well-being, impacting mental health in ways that are profound and transformative. 1. Stress Relief and Mood Elevation

Engaging in football fitness, be it playing, training, or even spectating, triggers the release of endorphins – the body's natural mood lifters. The rush of endorphins during physical activity helps reduce stress, alleviate anxiety, and enhance overall mood. The camaraderie and shared experience of the game foster a sense of community, contributing to feelings of belonging and reducing feelings of isolation. 2. Enhanced Cognitive Function Football demands quick decision-making, strategy planning, and split-second actions. Regularly engaging in the sport sharpens cognitive abilities, including improved focus, better concentration, and enhanced problem-solving skills. These attributes don't just stay on the pitch; they transfer to various aspects of life, aiding in clearer thinking and improved mental acuity. 3. Confidence Boost Success on the football field, be it scoring a goal or mastering a new skill, boosts selfesteem and confidence. Overcoming challenges, working in a team, and the sense of accomplishment gained from individual progress significantly impact self-belief. This newfound confidence often spills over into everyday life, empowering individuals to tackle challenges with greater assurance.

Football fitness serves as an outlet for stress. It offers a space to channel negative energy into something positive, allowing individuals to unwind, forget their worries, and focus on the game. The resilience developed through facing both victories and defeats on the pitch builds mental toughness and the ability to handle adversity in life.

5. Social Interaction and Support Football, at its core, is a social game. It fosters friendships, camaraderie, and a sense of belonging. Whether playing in a team or simply being part of a football community, the social interaction it provides combats feelings of loneliness and isolation. Building connections through a shared passion for the game helps create a support network that's invaluable for mental health.

6. Routine and Discipline The structured nature of football fitness, including regular training schedules and match days, instills discipline and routine. Establishing a routine aids in regulating sleep patterns, managing stress, and providing a sense of purpose and direction, all of which are crucial for maintaining good mental health.

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4. Stress Reduction and Mental Resilience

Conclusion Football fitness isn't just about scoring goals or building endurance; it’s about nurturing a healthier mind. The benefits go far beyond physical fitness, reaching deep into the mental and emotional well-being of individuals. Engaging in the beautiful game not only elevates physical health but also contributes significantly to mental resilience, emotional well-being, and overall happiness. So, lace up your boots, hit the pitch, and let football be your trusted ally in scoring big for mental health.

If you are interested in joining Football Fitness Clubs weekly session based in Chelmsford, Please contact: footballfitnessclub@btinternet.com

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grassrootsmag@btinternet.com 31

MATCHFIT

EXPLAIN HOW

TO RELIEVE HAMSTRING TIGHTNESS

HOW TO RELIEVE HAMSTRING TIGHTNESS Muscle tightness is a subjective feeling that might also be described as soreness, stiffness or simply not being able to move very well. A common mistake made by footballers is to assume that because their hamstrings feel “tight”, then focusing on stretching only the hamstrings is the answer. This often leads to a lot of time spent stretching for little to no gain, the feeling of tightness remains and this is because the hamstrings are only a part of the problem. THE UNDERLYING ISSUE The movements involved in playing football can cause the hip flexors and quads to become tight. The tightness in these muscles leads to them overworking, leading to even greater tightness which then forces the opposing muscles to lengthen. In this case, those muscles are the hamstrings. This is known as lower cross syndrome (LCS) or anterior pelvic tilt and it means that your pelvis has rotated forward slightly due to your hip flexors and quads becoming tight and shortened and your hamstrings becoming lengthened. FIXING THE ISSUE Unless the underlying issues are addressed, your hamstrings are always going to feel tight, no matter how much stretching you do and they’re also at greater risk of injury. The first step is to work on releasing the tight muscles (the hip flexors and quads), foam rolling is a good starting point. • Lie face down on a roller and position it under the hip flexors of one leg • Roll backwards and forwards over the area to locate any tightness • Focus the rolling pressure on any tight spots for 10 to 20 seconds or until the tension releases • Repeat on the other leg

Once you’ve worked on both legs, move on to foam rolling your quad muscles in the same way. The next step is stretching. A good way to stretch your hip flexors and quads at the same time is the couch stretch •

• • • • •

Reverse yourself into position on your knees with a step, box, or the seat-cushion of your couch available to support the stretching leg Slide one knee back so that it fits into the angle between the box and the floor Your shin should be flush with the side of the box and your foot pointing upwards Slide your other leg out so that the foot is flat on the floor and the knee bent at 90 degrees Squeeze your glute muscles on the stretching leg (rear leg) as you drive the hip forward to increase the stretch Hold the stretch for up to 2 minutes, gradually increasing it by pulling yourself more upright as you push the hip forward

This stretch targets the hip flexors and the quads, but where you feel it, most is an individual thing. Experiment with your hands above your head or rotate the stretching leg slightly inward towards the front leg to promote the ideal level of stretch for you. You can expect minor discomfort as you stretch, but it shouldn’t be painful, and it can be repeated several times throughout the day.

STRENGTHENING THE GLUTES AND ABS Once the tight muscles are stretched, it’s time to focus on strengthening the muscles that will hold your pelvis in the correct position. These are mainly the glutes and abs.

Suggested exercises: • • • • •

Glute bridges Loaded deadlifts or squats Dead bugs Ab wheel roll out Plank (on the floor or with elbows on a Swiss ball)

REDUCING HAMSTRING TIGHTNESS

Many of the above exercises can be built into your regular gym programme so that you’re not trying to find extra time to focus on them. Step 1: Lengthen your hip flexors and quads Step 2: Strengthen your glutes and abs Hamstring stretches can still be a beneficial element of your daily routine and with a little extra effort you will return your pelvis to its natural position, allowing you to continue training and playing without tightness and without the increased risk of picking up injuries.

GET YOUR COPY TODAY CLICK HERE TO FIND OUT MORE

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FINAL

WHISTLE BY PAUL SMITH

Happy new year one and all it is that time of year when after the Christmas break amazingly the shirt seems to have shrunk in the two weeks it has been sat in the kitbag! Over the festive period we witnessed two VAR decisions for Wolves and Everton players which resulted in red cards both rather harsh in my opinion and with fellow Referees I have discussed it with. As previously mentioned in this column it was refreshing to see a couple of players sent off for swearing at officials at last ! What we have to endure most matches is filtering down the football pyramid but on the flip side the two VAR decisions mentioned you can bet every challenge now is going to be greeted with a call for a red card!

In some matches I have officiated in we have used comms which enables us to speak to our assistants I know from experience that if an incident happens in their area of control, I can delay my decision until I hear from them and any sanction, they feel may be applicable. With regard VAR if no serious injury has occurred or there is no confrontation between players let the game flow two of us have witnessed the event you could even take advice from assistant on far side and fourth official . The breaks in play are frustrating for all in the stadium and can increase tensions between players and officials if the on-field Referee is happy let's just play.

The beautiful game can bring us so much we are starting to enter the “business end” of the season shortly , later stages of cup competitions , trialist games at the end of scholarships are literally life changing for some of the players involved All we ask as officials is that we can have a game where at the end we all shake hands and enjoy a drink in the bar after the match. I find now more teams are a lot more respectful of opponents and officials let us hope that continues. So have a good year everyone let’s hope you all achieve what you set out to at start of season .

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So, at this time of year a lot of gyms are offering cheap memberships , a number of companies are offering football sessions for all standards , those with health issues , those who just need a little confidence , we are blessed within this game put football fans together there is always a bond we all enjoy playing it but particularly talking about it. Support groups can offer help and a chat with someone over a drink means a lot and can have an amazing effect on someone. The magazine can point any of you in the right direction if you are having issues no matter how minor they may seem. I have refereed at a few of these leagues/ events one particular at Watford FC for autistic footballers you know what who cares about the score the enjoyment all have competing makes it worthwhile.

Enjoy the game

Smithy

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The Noticeboard

grassroots magazine IF YOU HAVE ANYTHING YOU WOULD LIKE TO ADD TO OUR NOTICEBOARD, CALL 07752 178637. grassrootsmag@btinternet

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THE

CLARETS

CLICK HERE TO FIND OUT MORE

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Grassroots is proud to be supporting Farleigh Hospice Grassroots Magazine is delighted to be supporting local charity, Farleigh Hospice. In each edition, we will be sharing with you their latest news along with upcoming events that you can get involved in! Farleigh Hospice has been a cornerstone of our local community since 1982 when, following the death of a lady called Audrey Appleton from cancer, her friends Glenda Lance and Dr Gill Collier launched an appeal to establish hospice services in and around Chelmsford. Since its creation later that same year, Farleigh has provided hospice care to thousands of people affected by life-limiting illnesses and bereavement across mid Essex. The hospice, which is celebrating its 40th birthday this year, continues to help people to live as actively as possible from the point of diagnosis to the end of their lives, by providing physical and emotional care, free of charge. As a charity, Farleigh relies on the generosity of the local community to raise the £6 million it needs every year to care and support those who rely on its services. One of the ways that Farleigh engages with the community is through the range of fundraising events it organises throughout the year, which are listed on its website -

www.farleighhospice.org/events Here we take a look at some of the exciting events coming up… the Annual Quiz, Sponsored Doggy Walk and Autumn Shopping Extravaganza!

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