Charlie's Trust donates minibus

Wednesday 25th April 2012

A charitable trust set up in memory of a Sheffield United fan will be handing over keys to a minibus to help the work of the club's community division.

Charlie's Trust was established in memory of seven-year-old Charlie Liversidge who died after being knocked down near his home in Dore, Sheffield, in April 2008.

The charity works to provide educational opportunities for children and young people in South Yorkshire and North East Derbyshire.

Its latest initiative is the donation of a minibus to the club's community arm, the United Initiative. The 16-seater vehicle will be shared by Penny Acres Primary School in Holmesfield, which Charlie attended.

Beverley Webster, Charlie's aunt and chairman of the trust, said: "Charlie was a beautiful boy, full of fun and humour who inspired others to laugh, love and care about life. Penny Acres helped harness and focus his boundless energy while encouraging him to learn and explore his true potential.

"Donating this minibus through money raised by Charlie's Trust will mean that many children and young people will benefit for years to come through the fantastic work of both the United Initiative and Penny Acres Primary School. Charlie was a massive Blades fan, so this is a fitting tribute and a great way to keep his memory alive."

The minibus will be used to help transport children and young people between training grounds and to matches.

Charlie's parents, Andrew and Jo, will be presenting the keys to the minibus at United's match against Stevenage on April 28.

Dave McCarthy, managing director at Sheffield United, said: "We are delighted and honoured to be working with Charlie's Trust, which is a fantastic charity with a poignant message, set up in the name of a true Blades fan."

Sheffield United will help meet the ongoing costs of the minibus.

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