Imerys charity football match raises money for Children’s Hospice South West

Team lithium lift the Imerys Cup after thrilling 5–4 comeback in St Stephen

A charity football match hosted by Imerys has raised over £800 for Children’s Hospice South West.

Held at Brannel School in St Stephen on Wednesday 30th April, the match saw ‘Team lithium’ complete a stunning comeback to beat ‘Team kaolin’ 5–4, with both teams helping to raise a total of £802.29 for the local charity. The game also marked the launch of the new ‘Imerys Cup’.

Comeback of the night

Played in front of a crowd and under sunshine, the match started with Team kaolin racing into a 4–0 lead within the first 30 minutes. But just before half-time, Team lithium pulled back two goals to leave the game finely balanced at the break.

The second half was one-sided, as Team lithium scored three more times to turn the game around. Team kaolin pushed hard for an equaliser but couldn’t break through, leaving lithium to lift the Imerys Cup.

📷‘Team Kaolin’ and ‘Team Lithium’ before kick off

A night of football, fundraising and community spirit

Organiser Jack McKie, GIS specialist for Imerys British Lithium, said:

“We are overwhelmed with the level of support for the charity football game we put on. Although we had the Imerys Cup on the line, the most important thing was to raise money for an important cause. Plans are already underway for next year’s event. I want to give a massive thanks to the players, the organisers and most importantly all of those who donated.”

Children’s Hospice South West’s area fundraiser Bethany Rudge added:

“We’re incredibly grateful to Imerys for taking the initiative to organise this charity football match in support of our special cause. It’s truly inspiring to see a local company not only get behind our Sponsor a Nurse initiative, but also take their support a step further by hosting a staff charity football match — which has raised an incredible amount of money for children and their families in the South West. Thank you!”

Imerys also recently donated £1,000 to the charity’s Sponsor a Nurse campaign, which helps fund care for families whose children are not expected to reach adulthood.

Celebrations and support

Both teams were kitted out in new branded red and blue shirts, and the winners were presented with an engraved trophy and post-match pasties, thanks to Imerys. Denver at St Stephen Social Club was also thanked for hosting drinks and dinner for the players and supporters after the match.

Mark Hewson, who leads Imerys in the UK, said:

“Events like this really showcase the generosity of the community. It’s about more than just a football match, it’s about coming together to support a cause that touches so many lives.
“We’re proud to also back Children’s Hospice South West Sponsor a Nurse initiative and incredibly grateful to everyone who contributed to this successful – if somewhat competitive evening!”

📷The winners ‘Team Lithium’ who were victorious 5-4