Community thanked for ‘overwhelming’ support at football fundraiser

The family of a Melksham teenager has thanked the community for their ‘overwhelming’ support at their annual football fundraiser in his memory.

The family of Ben Smith, who died after being assaulted on a night out in Bath in 2021, hosted their fourth annual football fundraiser at Melksham Town Football Club on Sunday 3rd May.

The day included a friendly football match between The Bee’s Knees, Ben’s former football team, and his brother’s team, The Fat Heads. Former Liverpool player Ray Houghton was also in attendance and signed autographs. There was also post-match entertainment from The Singing Herdsman, along with refreshments, a raffle and an auction.

Ben’s mum Rachel said, “It’s lovely for people to come from Melksham to support our son’s event and remember him and how he passed, and to see everybody together having fun. The weather’s good this year, which is another plus point. It’s just overwhelming to see so many people who come to spend time for us and our son.”

So far, more than £6,500 had been raised, with totals still being counted. The funds will be donated to three charities that supported the family following Ben’s death: the Ben Saunders Foundation, which raises money for children and young adults with cancer; SmileForJoel, which supports families affected by murder and terrorism; and One Punch UK, which raises awareness of the impact of a single punch.

Pictured: Ben’s parents, Rachel Smith (centre l) and Arthur Smith (centre r), with Ben’s granny Celia Williams (centre) and Josh Flynn, Chloe Koenig, Alex Smith, referee Graham and Craig Robbins.