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Charity football match raises £12,000 in memory of Harrogate baby born asleep

Wednesday, 15 September 2021 17:00

A charity football match has raised £12,000 in memory of a Harrogate baby born asleep. The match between Harrogate Railway and Knaresborough Town took place on Saturday 29th August in memory of baby Declan Parkes. Declan was born sleeping to parents Simon and Zoe at Harrogate Hospital in February. Harrogate-based charity fundraising company Impulse Decisions stepped in to support the couple by arranging a charity football match, attended by over 450 spectators. And the money raised will go to Harrogate Hospital & Community Foundation and stillbirth charity Sands, who work with grieving families.

Tom Hesketh, Director of Hospitality Sales at Impulse Decisions, said:

"The day was a massive success, it was great to get some old faces from both clubs back together and raise money for such a great cause.

"Raising over £12,000 is a massive achievement for Simon and Zoe and will leave a lasting legacy for little Declan."

[caption id="attachment_16180" align="aligncenter" width="1800"] Baby Declan Parkes was born asleep at Harrogate Hospital in February.[/caption]

Harrogate hospital were able to provide a 'cuddle cot' for parents Simon and Zoe, allowing them to spend time with Declan.

As a result, the couple decided they wanted to raise additional funds to provide another cuddle cot for the hospital, ensuring other families could have a similar experience.

Sammy Lambert, Business Development Charity and Volunteer Manager, said:

"I would like to thank everyone who took part and fundraised for this special event to remember Declan.

"I would especially like to thank Simon and Zoe who chose to raise funds for Harrogate Hospital & Community Charity.

"Declan’s legacy will live on and bring comfort to others during what can only be described as a tragic and devastating time for parents."

To contribute towards the fundraising campaign for both Harrogate Hospital & Community Charity and Sands, find the Virgin Money page here.

Read more local stories from Your Harrogate here.

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