James Singleton and Glenavon players turn supporters for special cause

James Singleton (right) joined Glenavon players and volunteers on Saturday at Mourneview Park during the club’s charity drive. Pic by Pacemaker.

The defender was joined by a number of players keen to play a part in the Danske Bank Premiership outfit’s community project designed to offer welcome aid to those most vulnerable.

The impact of the Coronavirus outbreak has put the Irish League season on hold as just one area affected by the health crisis. Singleton’s daytime employment as a schools’ coach has also suffered as a result of steps taken to restrict the risk of spreading infection.

He utilised some of that free time at the weekend to return to his footballing home on a traditional matchday and, with the focus off the field, do what he could to assist the other volunteers organising and assembling care packages.

“Robbie Garrett, James Taylor, Paddy Burns and Danny Purkis were also there from the first-team squad and manager Gary Hamilton helped out with some of the deliveries,” said Singleton. “Rhys Emerson has been playing in the reserves and he turned up with packages prepared by his parents to add to the donations.

“The local Mourne Road Spar sent a massive delivery down too, so it was wonderful for everyone to catch up and, more importantly, help out.

“The dedication of the volunteers was, as ever, superb and there are so many people working behind the scenes who may never get the full credit they deserve.

“As players we are going to make sure we turn up and support the donation days each Saturday, Tuesday and Thursday and the plan is to keep Mourneview Park as a delivery point for as long as required.

“We talk about Glenavon as a family club and I’ve been on the books for a decade now so know from first-hand experience how many special people are around the place.

“Saturday was an example and it is great to be in a position to help those vulnerable when most in need.

“Hygiene was crucial and we all stuck to the guidelines.

“The only time we were close together was for a few seconds during the photographs.”

Singleton admits he enjoyed benefits beyond the fresh pride in his club’s community spirit.

“Obviously football is on hold so that means no training together or games and you only have to see the WhatsApp group messages to see how much everyone is missing the routine.” said Singleton. “It was great for us as players to get together again for a few hours and to catch up with people around the club.

“Although people from all over arrived with donations, it was particularly nice as well to see so many fans.

“The response was superb considering we only put out the message over social media last Friday.

“During such a difficult time, it was great to get smiling and sharing a laugh together in the middle of such an important cause.

“These packages will go out to the area and beyond, it is help available to anyone in need and we are keen to hear from others looking for support.

“No-one should feel embarrassed ever about asking for help, big or small.”

Anyone able to make a donation can leave items at Mourneview Park on the following times: Tuesday mornings 10-12 o’clock, Thursday evenings 6-8 o’clock or Saturday mornings 10-12 o’clock.

A number of volunteer co-ordinators from the club are available over telephone: Leigh - 07717295928; Eddie - 07866273306; Sarah-Anne - 07716365422; Adam - 07763907454; David - 07702681044; Chris - 07796551668.