Former Irish League players support Newtownabbey charity

A Lee Doherty 1st Newtownabbey Select took on an Irish League Select in the annual ‘Billy Neill’ charity match at The Diamond in Rathcoole on October 15.

The event, organised by 1st Newtownabbey Linfield Supporters’ Club, raises funds for a worthy cause each year, with the money raised from the 2023 game going to Listening Ear.

The volunteer-led charitable organisation, based at Rathcoole’s Dunanney Centre, supports clients on issues such as debt and welfare advice, housing, mental health, suicide prevention and drug and alcohol awareness.

Mark Glendenning, Michael Gault, William Murphy, Mark Picking, Paul McAreavey, Adam Dick, Ryan McLaughlin, Jim Ervin and Mark Miskimmin were just some of the players to feature.

After the game, which the Irish League Select side won 7-2, a donation of £1,160 was made to Listening Ear by Brian Hamilton, Chairman of 1st Newtownabbey Linfield SC.