£3,000 raised in memory of South Shields amateur footballer Clive Wilson after his tragic death

Fundraising efforts in tribute to a popular and well-known South Tyneside amateur footballer have netted almost £3,000 in his memory.
Clive WilsonClive Wilson
Clive Wilson

Former teammates and friends of Clive Wilson came together to play a fundraising football game at Harton and Westoe Miner’s Welfare in Low Lane, South Shields.

The 48-year-old, who lived in West Harton, South Shields, died suddenly in May after contracting sepsis.

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Clive was well-known for his love of the game and it was this passion which led to his pals to showcase their footballing talents once again out on the pitch.

As well as paying tribute to Clive, the game was also raising funds to help pay for a headstone for his final resting place.

To date, £2,937 has been raised thanks to the event and fundraising by Clive’s sister Tina, who took part in the Great North Run in her brother’s memory, and Richard Egan, who helped with her sponsorship.

Organiser Jim Hunter said: “The game was competitive, but played in a spirit which suited the occasion.

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“It was an absolutely fantastic effort by all concerned, and helped to raise a lot more money than we thought we would.

“The place was packed with people who knew Clive, which was a testament as to how much he was liked and respected.

The teams played in the colours of Brazil, due to Clive often being likened to Brazil’s Pele as a youngster for his eyecatching ability, and England.

The majority of the teams were made up of former Toledo FC players - Clive’s former Sunday team - with a few ‘guests’. The final score was 5-2 to Brazil.

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Those taking part donated cash to buy their own kit, which was supplied by Bolam Premier Sportswear.

The event was also supported by Green Baize Snooker & Pool Club, Paul Davis Aerials, South Tyneside Bathrooms, Bbeautiful and David Hopper Physiotherapy.

Jim added: “I’d just like to say a huge ‘thank you’ to everyone who took part in the event and those who bought their kit but couldn’t make it on the night due to work commitments, especially Darren Brennan, who was away with work but still donated £100, and Micky Mason Senior and Dot Mason for their kind donation of £300.

“I’d also like to say thank you to Clive’s sister Rosie, Nicola Hutchison and Nicola Defty, who worked tirelessly on the evening by selling raffle tickets and ensuring the evening ran smoothly, as well as the committee and staff of Harton and Westoe Miners’ Welfare.”

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An online auction, with corporate tickets for a Newcastle United match, donated by Brian Heywood of Thomas Potter, helped raise £250 for the cause.

Clive had been a former groundsman at the old welfare site before part of it was sold to Persimmon Homes.