It was a special day today (Saturday, August 3) for both Bushey Rangers FC and Bushey Amateur Boxing Club, as they accepted the 100th-ever defibrillator provided by Abbots Langley charity, Wayne’s Fund.
Both clubs hosted a fundraising event at their home of Moatfield, pitting the young footballers and boxers against each other in sponsored fun run races to help raise the money needed for the vital piece of equipment.
Following the superb running, the crowds of young competitors, parents and club officials gathered outside the clubhouse, where the defibrillator was officially handed over to them by Glyn and John Pope, co-founders of the charity and brother and father respectively of Wayne Pope.
Wayne’s tragic and unexpected death at the age of just 30 in 2005 inspired his family to do something in his name that would also make sure that others would have to go through what they did.
Originally, they only intended to raise enough for three defibrillators. However, 18 years later, they have delivered tens of the items to various sports clubs, schools, and more across the local area.
They also know of at least three instances where equipment that they have fundraised to get has saved individual lives, including that of a 4-year-old boy and, curiously enough, Wayne’s favourite teacher from when he was a pupil at Francis Coombe School (now Future Academies Watford).
Speaking to Bushey News about the momentous occasion, John said: “I feel a sense of pride, and for us, it’s a sense of relief to think that somebody might be able to be helped by having the defib there.
“The journey over the years has been trying to get people to accept the importance of a defibrillator.”
Dave Swift, chairman of Bushey Rangers FC, added: “It’s an honour to have it. I took over the running of the club back in May, and we run a youth football club and an amateur boxing club here, so it’s absolutely fundamental to everyone’s safety to have it donated.
“Being the 100th donation, it’s really something special.”
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