Sky Blues fans set for Derby Day Dander charity fundraiser from Ballymena to Coleraine in memory of Lydia
A ‘Derby Day Dander’ in memory of a young Ballymena United FC fan is set to raise funds for Air Ambulance NI.
The fundraising walk between Ballymena Showgrounds and Coleraine Showgrounds has been organised by 15 local football fans in memory of avid Sky Blues fan, 21-year-old Lydia Ross who lost her life in a road crash in 2023.
Since Lydia’s death, her father Ryan has embarked on a series of fundraising events for Air Ambulance NI – and this has inspired some of his fellow football fans.
Organiser Ryan Crooks said on his JustGiving appeal: “Lydia was a huge Ballymena Utd fan and part of our small group who attend games and sit together, Block F being where we sit and the name of our small unofficial supporters club.
"Since losing his youngest daughter who he attended every home and away game with, Lydia's father Paul has been on a fundraising mission, raising vital funds for Air Ambulance Northern Ireland in memory of Lydia.
"Now as a group of friends we wanted to do something to contribute to Paul's efforts. That's where the 'Derby Day Dander' idea came from.
"Ballymena Utd are away to rivals Coleraine FC on 20th February 2026, and our aim is to walk from Ballymena Showgrounds to Coleraine Showgrounds in time for the 19.45pm kick off.”
A fundraising target of £1,000 has already been TRIPLED with the Ballymena walkers all set for their 26 mile ‘dander’.
Anyone wishing to donate to the Air Ambulance appeal can do so vis JustGiving.