by Alan Quick

A LOCAL couple are organising a 37-hour marathon football match for the charity, Kicks Count, in memory of their daughter, Lily, who was sadly stillborn at 37 weeks.

Crediton United Football Club First Team Manager Matt Trenaman and his partner, Gemma Salmon, a teacher at Bow Community Primary School, suffered the heartbreaking loss of losing their daughter earlier this year.

Matt explained: “My partner Gemma and I suffered the heartbreak of losing our beautiful baby girl Lily on January 31, 37 weeks into our pregnancy. 

“Previous scans and midwife appointments suggested a healthy baby with no cause for concern.

“On the morning of Sunday, January 31, we believed Gemma had gone into labour and were advised to go into hospital to have our baby.

“On arrival, we were devastated to learn that our baby’s heartbeat could not be found and that she had passed away. Shortly afterwards, Gemma gave natural birth to our little girl Lily, who was born sleeping. 

“We have since researched the subject of still births and were shocked to learn of the relatively high number of still births suffered in the UK in comparison to the rest of Europe. We feel far more can be done to help raise awareness for expectant parents.”

In order to raise awareness, and money for Kicks Count, a UK registered charity that aims to empower mums to be with knowledge and confidence throughout their pregnancy, the couple have organised a special fundraising event in Crediton.

At Crediton United Football Club at Lords Meadow, Crediton, the couple will host a gruelling 37-hour marathon football match.

The match will kick-off at 10pm on Friday, July 8 and finish around midday on Sunday, July 10.

The match will be an 11-a side game played at Lords Meadow and will consist of two squads of 18 players.

There will be 20 minute breaks after each hour and both sets of squads will be taking part from start to finish.

There will also be further fundraising activities for all the family held around the pitch on Saturday, July 9.

Matt added: “We wish to encourage as many people as possible to come along. Entry is free and further donations can be made during the weekend.”

The couple hope to raise more than £10,000 for the charity and have started a JustGiving page: www.justgiving.com/Matthew-Trenaman .

Matt continued: “So far, we have raised more than £5,200 plus £1,168 – a fantastic response.

“Kicks Count have added our story and JustGiving link to the front page of their official website – they too have been overwhelmed by the generous donations made to date.

“All donations will be gratefully received.”