The family of Melksham teenager Ben Smith, who died nearly three years ago after being assaulted on a night out in Bath, have raised nearly £7,000 for charities that supported them after his death.
The funds were raised through a coffee morning last year and a fun football funday held at Oakfield Stadium, home of Melksham Town FC, on Sunday 27th April. Money was raised for The Ben Saunders Foundation, which supports children and young adults with cancer; SmileForJoel, which helps families affected by murder and terrorism; and One Punch UK, which raises awareness about the devastation a single punch can cause.
Ben started playing football with Melksham Town FC’s youth team when he was six and continued for many years. The funday is held in honour of Ben’s love of football and featured a match between two teams made up of players who had played alongside Ben and his brother Alex. This year’s winners were Ben’s brother’s team.
Following the match, there was live music from the Tin Shack Band, which had children playing tambourines.
“It was a wonderful afternoon and evening, and we had great weather this year,” said Ben’s mum, Rachel. “We will continue to hold this event, as it raises money for three great charities that supported us and also brings awareness of what one punch—or more—can cause on a fun night out.
“The event also brings everyone together in memory of a wonderful young man. We also took a moment to remember others whose lives were also cut short and were known to Ben.
“There is not a day that goes by that we don’t think of Ben, and we miss him every minute of every day. As a family, we would like to thank everybody involved in making this day happen—the businesses that donated wonderful prizes for the raffle, and the amazing support from friends and the local community. It’s helping us keep Ben’s memory alive and create something fun and positive from his death.
“We are eternally grateful to everyone. We continue to fight for justice for Ben.”
The family are continuing their fundraising this month with a psychic evening featuring medium Jonie Goddard on Saturday 31st May.
