Charity football match raises £11k for Factory Youth Zone


On a cold and drizzly November day, two teams made up from Manchester’s business and property industry gathered together to play a special MUFC v MCFC match at Altrincham Football Club.  The game raised £11,000 for The Factory Youth Zone, the charity which provides support for disadvantaged young people from Manchester.

Working with children and young people aged 8-19 (up to 25 with additional needs), The Factory Youth Zone offers a wide range of activities including sports, arts, youth work sessions and specialist workshops with the aim of improving the lives of local young people in one of the most deprived areas of the UK.

With over 1,000 young people attending each week, their iconic building provides a base for exciting and stimulating learning which introduces new experiences, develops self-confidence, builds healthy relationships, raises aspirations and prepares young people for work and independence.

Richard Marsh, chief executive, Factory Youth Zone said: “It’s terrific to see the guys putting on their boots and giving their time to help raise funds.  It costs £1.2 million per year to keep our doors open so support like this is vital to the much needed work we do.

“I’ve got to say a huge thanks to Gary Neville and Dennis Tueart for generously giving their time to coach the teams; also to Altrincham Football Club and everyone who took part in the match.

Gary Neville’s MUFC side were soundly beaten 6-1 by Dennis Tueart’s Manchester City team, you can watch the highlights of the day here

Team players included: Andrew Cowell, OBI Property; Rob Cotton, NCC Group; Steve Bartlett, Social Chain; Alex Russell, Property Alliance Group: Chris Davis, MoneyPlus Group and Gary Tipper, Palatine Private Equity.

Will Lewis, director, OBI Property said:  “Factory Youth Zone is fantastic operation providing much needed support to many young people and I am really pleased the game raised so much for the charity.  Looking forward to next year’s rematch.”