A memorial football tournament has raised over £1,500 for a Cumbrian suicide prevention charity.
The annual Jonny ‘Mougs’ Mason over 35’s five-a-side footy tournament took place on Saturday June 29, in Kendal, and saw funds raised for Every Life Matters.
It’s a tournament that is played to raise suicide prevention awareness and remember Jonny Mason, who took his own life.
Matt Brooks, the event organiser said: “We lost Jonny two years ago in terrible circumstances, so we wanted to do something not only to remember him and celebrate his life, but to also raise awareness and provide some much needed funds for our local suicide prevention and support charity, Every Life Matters.
“Jonny loved his football so putting on a tournament felt like a great way to do this. I was really humbled by the amount of local lads who were prepared to sacrifice their time to join in.”
The tournament had a strong turn out – with teams battling it out to be named champions and take home the winning trophy.
All players who took part in the tournament made a donation to the charity and the group also received support from IBIS FC, who allowed the use of their social club for post-tournament celebrations.
Matt added: “As it’s an over 35s tournament, there’s been a lot people hobbling around Kendal this week but there seems to be a lot of interest in another tournament next year.
“Hopefully we can raise further awareness and attract more teams to help make the event even more successful in 2025.”
The fundraising page is still open to donations, and can be accessed here.
Every Life Matters work not only to prevent suicides through training and campaigning but also offer bereavement support to those who have lost a loved one to suicide.
The charity is working to break the stigma surrounding suicide through education and stating conversations to help individuals reach out for help.
Emily Lishman, community fundriasing coordinator for the charity, said: “The fact this tournament takes place every year is testament to the memory of Jonny and the passion of those who attend every year have for preventing deaths by suicide.
“We are so grateful to have such steadfast supporters who put on such a fun day out, what an amazing day to bring people together through the power of football!”
If you are feeling emotionally distressed or suicidal, help and support is available. Call Samaritans for help on 116 123 or email [email protected].
