A charity football match held by Wrexham Police FC has raised thousands for a local boy born with a rare genetic condition and his family.
The team may have taken the matchday honours – but it was the club’s huge fundraising effort was the real story of the weekend.
In a match played at Colliers Park on Saturday, 23 March, the NWP officers and staff registered victory against a strong North Wales Dragons side.
The fixture was held in support of four-year-old Wrexham boy Louis Perrin, who has a rare genetic condition known as TUBA1A.
Louis also bravely battles epilepsy, cerebral palsy, and faces challenges with mobility due to severe leg spasms.
Led by the officers, a concerted fundraising campaign has now raised more than £13,500 – courtesy of some huge donations from famous supporters.
Ryan Reynolds, Rob McElhenney, and Michael Sheen were among those who pledged funds and helped Louis’ family reach their £40,000 target.
The funds raised will now enable the family to adapt their home for Louis’ needs.
Spectators watched on as Louis’ elder brother Teddy came on as a substitute and scored twice in Saturday’s game.
Speaking after the match, Wrexham Police FC founder Sgt Dave Smith said: “It was pleasing to win against a strong North Wales Dragons side, but the result is irrelevant.
“Today was about Louis and I was delighted that he was here today, watching on with his family.
“We feel incredibly proud to have helped Louis and his family reach their £40,000 target.
“We’re also truly thankful to each and every person that has donated, shared and supported our fundraising.
“It’s an amazing achievement by all involved and will make a real difference to the family.”
Wrexham Police FC’s next fixture will see the team take on Liverpool Football Therapy at Colliers Park on Sunday, 14 April.
The Merseyside club are a community project encouraging adults affected by mental ill health to use football as a recovery tool or as part of ongoing therapy.
