Ollie was a happy and cheeky chilled-out boy. He was the biggest fan of PJ Mask, Paw Patrol and especially Super Mario. He was known for giving out high fives and loved playing hide & seek and catch!
Just before his second birthday little Ollie was diagnosed with high-risk neuroblastoma. In late November 2018, Ollie’s parents had started to notice a change in him.
“He became a very sad child. He was getting very clingy and unsociable – completely the opposite to how he usually was,” said Gary and Lucy. “He stopped enjoying the things he loved doing like going to nursery and swimming. He stopped eating and only wanted to sit watching TV.” They noticed his skin becoming translucent and his veins being very visible. “His stomach was also very swollen and his belly button bulged out. He was very irritable when it came to changing his nappy.”
They took Ollie to the doctors on many occasions with high temperatures and sometimes sickness. They thought it was just a viral infection and it would work itself out. But after several visits, Gary and Lucy insisted on seeing their local GP who immediately referred Ollie to the Paediatric ward at Luton and Dunstable hospital.
Blood tests were taken which found Ollie to be anaemic. But just before he was to be discharged, a doctor asked to feel Ollie’s stomach. An emergency ultrasound was called for and a tumour was found in his abdomen.
Ollie was immediately transferred to Addenbrooke’s hospital. After several days of testing and scans, it was finally confirmed on January 9th 2019 that Ollie had stage 4 high-risk neuroblastoma.
“He had a tumour in his abdomen around one of his kidneys and another tumour growing behind his right eye, which was pushing on his eyeball The cancer had also spread to his bone marrow ”
TREATMENT
Ollie went on to have radiotherapy before starting several months of immunotherapy. Following radiotherapy, Ollie had clear scans in September 2019 and was doing really well. Immunotherapy started in November 2019 and Ollie remained clear of disease all the way through to the end of his treatment in April 2020.
In July 2020 Ollie became suddenly unwell and was admitted to Addenbrooke's. An MRI scan found a tumour sitting on his seventhand eighthcranial nerve near the brain stem which, following a biopsy, was confirmed to be relapsed neuroblastoma. 10-20% of the tumour was removed during surgery and with the intensive chemotherapy that followed, Ollie was back in remission. Ollie continued on to receive more chemotherapy, and cranial-spinal radiation.
Ollie’s parents and treating team decided the treatment pathway for Ollie would be to access a clinical trial that includes two cycles of 8H9 (radioimmunotherapy) treatment followed by hu3f8 antibody treatment in Barcelona. The family then hoped that Ollie would be eligible to receive the bivalent vaccine clinical trial in New York.
Ollie's family travelled to Barcelona to begin treatment but sadly Ollie relapsed. He received chemotherapy in Spain until he was stable enough to fly home. Back home scans showed further disease progression.
Ollie's family shared the devastating news that their beautiful boy passed away on Sunday 18th July 2021 surrounded by his family and all his favourite toys.
OLLIE SWEENEY FOREVER IN OUR HEARTS
OURHISTORY
Ollie United Football Club was formed in June 2019 to help then two year old, Ollie Sweeney in his fight against Stage Four Neuroblastoma, a rare form of childhood cancer. Ollie was diagnosed just one month before his second birthday. On average, one hundred children in the UK are diagnosed with Neuroblastoma each year. Of the one hundred children, fifty are diagnosed with the high risk form of the disease. Even if children go into remission, there is still a high chance that they can relapse. If that happens, the chances of survival are sadly very low. Our club was set up to raise money for Ollie's treatment which is currently not available on the NHS.
Sadly in 2021, Ollie passed away. Our club keeps his memory alive, raising money for causes that helped him.
From Ollie's diagnosis, the aim of the club was simple. Play football with a smile on our faces against like minded football clubs in the hope of raising money for Ollie's treatment.
Since Ollie's passing, our goal is the same, but now we're raising money for children like Ollie who are currently fighting Neuroblastoma. In 2023 we joined Sunday League for the very first time, playing every Sunday morning in Luton. Win draw or lose, our main focus is keeping Ollie's memory alive through our beloved football club. Since 2019, we've had our charity side who play between the months of April and August.
Currently, we are in search of volunteers for our football club to help during match days. Your passion and backing are essential in ensuring an enjoyable experience for all. If you're eager to be part of the matchday buzz, we invite you to join our volunteer team. Your contribution will make a significant difference!
Whether you're a seasoned volunteer or looking to start fresh, we have various roles to match your interests and abilities. There's something for everyone. Volunteering with us not only allows you to socialise and form new connections but also provides an opportunity to give back to the community and show support for our cherished football club.
The team is passionate about bringing the community together through the love of football while supporting a vital cause. Every match they play not only showcases their skills on the field but also serves as a platform to spread awareness about mental health issues. By partnering with Chums charity, AFC Awareness aims to make a tangible difference in the lives of those in need, offering hope and support through their fundraising efforts. Whether you're a football enthusiast or someone who believes in the power of community, supporting AFC Awareness is a wonderful way to contribute to a better, more compassionate world.
Mind is a prominent mental health charity in the UK dedicated to providing support, information, and advice to those experiencing mental health challenges. Founded in 1946, the organisation aims to improve mental health awareness and reduce stigma associated with mental illness. Mind offers a range of services, including helplines, local support groups, and resources for individuals and families.
The charity plays a crucial role in advocating for better mental health policies and practices, working with government bodies and other organisations to ensure that mental health is prioritised in public health discussions. Mind also provides training and resources for employers to create more supportive work environments. Through its efforts, Mind strives to empower individuals, promote understanding, and ensure that everyone has access to the help they need, reinforcing the idea that mental health is just as important as physical health.
KIDSGETCANCERTOO
A MANIFESTO TO ACCELERATE CLINICAL RESEARCH INTO CHILDREN'S CANCERS
Cancers in children are distinctly different to those in adults. More than 4000 people younger than 25 years old are diagnosed annually in the UK. Whilst progress has been made in treating childhood cancers more effectively, still more than 80% of deaths from disease in those younger than 16 years old are caused by cancer. For those that do survive, the high toxicity of current therapies leaves them with life-altering side effects that continue into adulthood.
To improve this, newer, more effective treatments are needed that can only come from robust clinical research. Barriers and bottlenecks in the UK healthcare system are currently hindering progress, at the cost of children and their families.
We have identified four key priorities that have the potential to transform this landscape so that children and families affected by cancer are better served by the UK healthcare system. We are calling for a focused effort by the next Government on these priorities, in collaboration with stakeholders from across the sector, to bring the real and impactful change that is desperately needed.
In order to achieve these priorities, action is needed. That's why we're calling on the next Government to carry out the following activities to bring tangible change and impact:
The Class are five lads from Luton with a passion for making music about growing up in a poor town to love, life and friendship, with influences that can be heard from all over music, the band constantly bring their own vibe to each new track and every gig.
Their sound is an eclectic mix of indie rock, pop, and a hint of folk, creating a unique experience that resonates deeply with their audience. Each member brings their own flair to the group, from the soulful melodies of the lead vocalist to the intricate guitar riffs and the pulsating rhythm of the drums. Their lyrics often tell stories of their own lives, weaving narratives that are both personal and universally relatable.
At their live performances, The Class creates an atmosphere that's electric yet intimate. The crowd sings along to every word, feeling a connection not just to the music but to the band members themselves. It's this genuine connection and authenticity that has earned them a loyal following.
As they continue to evolve, The Class is dedicated to pushing the boundaries of their music. They experiment with different sounds and collaborate with other artists, always staying true to their roots while exploring new creative avenues. Their journey is one of growth and discovery, and they invite their fans to join them every step of the way.
CLUBAMBASSADOR
MattSmith
Matt Smith (born 26 April 1967) is a British broadcaster who worked with ITV Sport between 2001 and 2015. He currently presents TNT Sports' coverage of Premier League, FA Cup, Champions League, Europa League, Conference Football and England Under 21 matches.
At the BBC, Smith worked initially on Midlands Today, Breakfast, and BBC News 24, before moving onto Football Fever, World Snooker, and international events including the Sydney Olympics and Euro 2000, before joining ITV in the summer of 2001. Smith was one of the presenters on the ITV Sport Channel. After that he hosted coverage of UEFA Cup live matches and UEFA Champions League highlights. In the past, he has presented The Championship highlights programme every Sunday on ITV, and UEFA Champions League Live matches on ITV4 until ITV lost the respective contracts. He has also occasionally presented ITV Granada's weekly football show, Soccer Night
During the 2002 World Cup in Korea and Japan, Smith hosted a panel-based show featuring debate and World Cup highlights every evening during the tournament. At Euro 2004, he was the Senior reporter based with the England team.
Smith has also hosted On The Ball and Speed Sunday, and has reported at ITV's boxing coverage. He is also the main presenter of ITV's Darts coverage since the sport returned to the channel in 2007 after a long absence, presenting the Grand Slam of Darts, European Darts Championship,
UK Open, The Masters and The Players Championship alongside Chris Mason and Alan Warriner-Little. He also presented Snooker for ITV4 and was the main presenter of ITV coverage of IPL Cricket from 2010–2014 until they lost the rights to Sky Sports. Smith regularly appeared on ITV4 as well as the main ITV channel. However, he left ITV at the end of the 2015 football season as ITV lost the rights to live coverage of UEFA Champions League and Europa League matches. He was replaced by Jacqui Oatley. While at ITV, Smith covered 4 World Cups, 3 European Championships, hosted coverage of FA Cup Finals, Champions League Finals, Europa League Finals, England Internationals, European Qualifiers, International Friendlies, African Cup of Nations, IPL Cricket, Snooker and Pdc Darts. After his contract finished with ITV in 2015, he became freelance. He now works for TNT Sports working on Premier League, FA Cup, Champions League, Europa League, Conference Football, England Under 21 coverage as a presenter. He also hosted the BDO World Darts Championship 2017 for BT Sport. Since 2015 he has also returned to the BBC News Channel (formally BBC News 24) as a sports reporter/presenter and has also presented shows such as Kick Off and Weekend Sports Breakfast for Talksport.
In 2023, Matt Smith became Ollie United Football Club’s first ever ambassador.
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HOWITSTARTED…
I first became aware of a remarkable young girl named Jess in early 2018. Her family and close friends raised so much awareness for neuroblastoma with the #RoarForJess Twitter campaign, which saw Katy Perry and subsequently some of the biggest stars on the planet Roar For Jess, sending her beautiful heartwarming messages of love and support.
All the while, Jess who had been bravely fighting cancer for 7 years was receiving palliative end of life care. She must have been so frightened (bless her heart), yet despite everything that neuroblastoma threw at her she continued to be such a caring soul, always thinking of others, and always with a smile on her face There were so many examples shared by her family of a kind and caring girl, wise beyond her years. Inspirational quotes (Don’t be sad it’s a waste of a day). Looking after the other children on the cancer wards at GOSH. Always thinking of others. Beautiful traits, but in the context of a young girl battling neuroblastoma, it was extraordinary. This is why so many of us thought she was deserving of a Pride of Britain award.
She touched the lives and the hearts of so many of us.
Jess passed away on 7th September 2018 aged 10.
I thought it then as I think it now, how utterly amazing and special a human being she was. If only the world could be more like Jess.
Now I always try to surround myself with good, kind hearted and inspirational people. No one has inspired me more than Jess.
I was already taking on running and cycling fundraising challenges for Solving Kids’ Cancer and previously other childhood cancer charities, but Jess’s story moved me so deeply I wanted to do more
Quite simply, without Jess I wouldn’t be volunteering at Great Ormond Street Hospital. The best thing I have ever done and the greatest privilege of my life.
Inspiration can come in many forms. Although if I’m being honest I don’t suppose I ever envisaged one of my greatest inspirations in life being a 10 year old girl. However remarkable. Although, if the past 5 years at GOSH have taught me anything, it is how brave, resilient, inspiring and generally amazing sick children can be.
My 2024 London Marathon on behalf of Solving Kids’ Cancer was dedicated to Jess and all the other children who have passed away from neuroblastoma, those who continue with their gruelling treatment and those in remission.
I always have self doubt and I always experience a degree of maranoia (paranoia for marathon runners), but leading up to London Marathon day 2024 the self doubt and maranoia was off the scale!
Hardly any training. A longest run of 6.41 miles on the 3rd March. Just one 4 mile jog/walk along Brighton seafront in the last 7 weeks leading up to the marathon. Being troubled by my hip. I was a bit of a physical wreck. No wonder some of those closest to me asked me if I was doing the right thing?
But I couldn’t let Solving Kids’ Cancer down. I just couldn’t.
So I decided to give it a go and if it took me all day, then so be it!
The butterfly is the logo of Solving Kids’ Cancer. The butterfly is a symbol of HOPE. I decided to wear a pair of butterfly wings at the London Marathon. Together with name badges.
There were Rainbow name badges for the children who have passed away from neuroblastoma.
There were Butterfly name badges for the children either still bravely battling neuroblastoma or for those in remission.
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I have added 4 more name badges including another 3 rainbow badges in the short time since the marathon, and I will continue to wear the butterfly wings at future events.
There are few things more rewarding in my life than finishing the London Marathon on behalf of Solving Kids’ Cancer.
It may have been my slowest marathon by far, but it is the one I will undoubtedly cherish the most. It was an absolute privilege and without doubt one of the most special and emotional days of my life!
I’ve said it before and I will say it again. London on marathon day brings out the best in humanity. It’s a pretty horrible world at the moment, but when you see thousands of people running for a whole host of wonderful charities and in memory of loved ones. Being cheered on by hundreds of thousands of loved ones and strangers alike. It is beautiful.
Humanity at its best!
If I could, I would take part in the London Marathon every year.
Unfortunately, the future is a little uncertain at the moment, as the hip which so nearly prevented me from taking part in the marathon probably needs replacing at some stage, possibly before I can embark on anything else too challenging, which is so frustrating as I have major plans for a joint fundraising challenge on behalf of Solving Kids’ Cancer and Great Ormond Street Hospital. Two charities that have become very close to my heart.
But in whatever form it takes, I will keep supporting and banging the drum for Solving Kids’ Cancer and childhood cancer.
Children and Cancer, two words that should never go together!
#RoarForJess
WithDaveSnaith
Leighton & District League Chairman
I don’t really have much history on the League apart from the League Starting in 1971. The league has been led by many great people with Sid Clear being one man I have the much respect for he single handed kept the League going for many years. I ran teams as Secretary for most of the time I played. I started refereeing in 29th Nov 1992 after playing for various local clubs as a Goalkeeper for 20 years till I got Injured and had my knee rebuilt after bad ACL Damage.
I retired from Refereeing on 13th April 2022 doing 1,717 games having 3 seasons as Now Level 4. I love the administrating side of thing’s serving time on many leagues as Referee Secretary, Fixture Secretary, League Secretary, Treasurer and Chairman I was involved in the Luton League on a Saturday for close to 45 Years before the League folded 12 years as Chairman.
3 Years ago, I was asked to get a committee together and run the Leighton League, having not really had much involvement iin Sunday Football I wasn’t sure, after a few days decided to give it a go, The League was all over the place with 35 teams.
I think I have turned it around this season we have 62 teams in Six divisions.
I was on the Beds FA Full council for 20 years doing three years as Referees Committee Chairman, moving to Lincolnshire I have been voted onto the Full Council of their FA. I observe and Coach Referees up to level 4 something I love do.
So it looks like I could be around till I am taken away in a box.
DUNSTABLE GLIDER
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FOLLOWUSON SOCIALS
We’re looking for content creators to add to our weekly matchday programme.
If you have a passion for sports and a knack for storytelling, we want to hear from you!
Whether you’re a seasoned writer, a budding photographer, or a talented graphic designer, there’s a place for you in our team. Your contributions will help bring the excitement of matchday to life for our readers, offering insights, behind-the-scenes stories, and engaging visuals that capture the heart of the game.
Join us in creating a programme that not only informs but also inspires and entertains our dedicated fans. Reach out with your portfolio and ideas, and let’s make this season unforgettable together!
MBM Services Group brings together over several decades of combined experience in the field. Each of our directors brings a unique set of skills and knowledge, ensuring that we can tackle any challenge with confidence and expertise.
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“Dedicated to providing toptier electrical, mechanical, and plumbing services to both the commercial and domestic sectors. Our mission is to deliver exceptional quality, reliability, and efficiency in every project we undertake.”
In 2013 I started Directional to give young people a role model, someone they could talk to, and someone who would genuinely listen to them. I wanted to be the middle ground between young people and their teachers, parents or any other adults in their lives. I always wanted Directional to grow and reach as many young people as possible, I didn’t quite know it was going to grow to what it has.
I now have a team of passionate, skilful and experienced people who have the same goals as me. As a team we have built a culture and environment where young people can be heard and thrive. I have the same passion for the work and growth as I did when I first started DirectionalI enjoy the engagement and improvements of our young people every single day.
Learn more here...
Directional Community Interest Company (CIC) was formed in 2013 by director Jermaine Hall who had a vision to ‘Inspire the Next Generation’ through engaging them in sports, positive activities and providing relatable role models.
Starting as a 1-1 service, Directional has now grown into a company which provides services and activities for a range of young people through 1-1 work, group activities and open sessions.
Directional CIC has received recognition from BBC Look East, ITV Anglian News and Bedfordshire Police for efforts in contributing to the prevention of knife crime and motivating young people to succeed.
Directional CIC creates good working relationships with young people by relating to them through their lived experiences, and with the knowledge of education through sport. The focus surrounds on having a positive impact on the diverse range of young people, by raising aspirations and developing strong visions for success.
THANKYOUTOOUR AMAZINGSPONSORS& SUPPORTERS!
With thanks to Peter McCormack
SPONSORSHIP
31 year old "Lightning" Linus Udofia put up the best performance of his illustrious career in becoming a two time English Champion with a 10 round stoppage of the highly touted "Dangerous" Dan Catlin" whilst Piotr Mirga became two weight Southern Area Champion with a points victory over Ben Lilley to become Bantamweight Champion.
In an exciting night at York Hall Udofia proved he can be a force at the very top of the Middleweight division with a dominant display against Catlin. Linus moved to 20-2 with only two defeats against Denzel Bentley (split decision for the British title which many thought Linus had won) and an unfortunate injury loss to Kieran Conway (Eye closed by a freak punch instantaneously when cards were levelish after 6).
All Middleweights were put on notice as Catlin came out eager to try to land a knockout blow (being a devastating puncher). Udofia moved out of range to outbox Catlin to win the first round. The second was much closer before Udofia took charge winning the third before dropping Catlin with a big punch in round four. Udofia took control with exemplary boxing skills picking Catlin off regularly and forcefully and only perhaps round 8 could be given to Catlin. Round 10 coach Terry Steward told Udofia to finish the job off. Linus then caught Catlin with a great combination with a finishing punch dropping Catlin once again. The follow up flurry forced ref Darren Sarginson to step in to save Catlin.
Udofia will now be looking upwards towards the top of the division. Stablemate Brad Pauls holds the British title but this title is certainly something for Linus to aim for in the short/medium term once Brad moves on.
