JJunior football club are ‘wonderful’ says Ballycastle charity leader

A charity based in Ballycastle has described as ‘wonderful’ a donation from a local junior football club.

Cloughmills Boys and Girls FC handed over £100 to Ginny Hamilton and Helena McAllister from SOLAS to help run an organisation that assists those with mental and physical issues.

Speaking after receiving the cheque at Cloughmills Primary School last Wednesday evening, Ginny, who is chairperson of SOLAS, thanked the boys and girls for their hard work in raising the money.

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“We depend on voluntary donations and this is just wonderful,” she told the youngsters and officials of the club.

Donal Martin and Donna Magill handed over the money, but other officials of the club also played a large part in raising the money at a disco held at Christmas in the local Community Centre.

SOLAS is a new group formed just over a couple of years ago, but only moving into premises at The Diamond in Ballycastle last October.

Counsellors and volunteers help people of all aged with mental health issues in both men and women.

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They deal with depression, death of a family member, suicides, the families that are left behind and helping people communicate with people who share the same interests.

Craft courses and the like are also organised by SOLAS.

The Cloughmills club appear to have taken the charity to their hearts as they are now planning a further fund-raising exercise.

Currently, officials are asking parents of the club members if they would like to take part in this year’s Belfast City marathon which takes place on May 6.

It’s a great way to keep fit and help raise money for a very worthy organisation.

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To participate in the nine-mile walk costs £33, the run is three mile long and costs £11 while a relay team of four will pay £80. The marathon itself is £33.

Donna Magill said she would really like to see parents take part and if they agree - hopefully sponsorship would follow.

A form is being circulated for sponsors which needs to be returned to the club by February 10. Anyone interested should contact 078 557 13250, 07858789437 or call 028 207 62222.