Charity match is the best tribute to Stewart
Friends of a football fan who died after a long battle with cystic fibrosis say he would have loved to be part of the second charity match being played in his honour.
Those closest to Paisley man Stewart Kelly, who sadly died just aged 30 in 2018, are lacing up their boots again for their annual match for charity.
Last year they coined in more than £10,000 for three cystic fibrosis organisations.
And this time round, the group of pals have high hopes of raising another staggering amount.
The match set to take place next month will feature an Old Firm clash between Celtic and Rangers - something close pal Chris MacPherson says Celticmad Stewart would have loved.
He told the Express: “Stewart would have been totally buzzing about this match and would have really enjoyed getting involved in it with everyone.
“It’s such a great way for us to remember him and it’s fantastic for us all to get together and do something he would really have liked doing.
“We couldn’t believe how well we did last year. We really didn’t expect to raise that much at all.”
Last year’s event saw bumper cheques for £3,523.30 go to Cystic Fibrosis Trust, Butterfly Trust and the Willow Foundation.
Stewart had only just turned 30 before he died on May 30 last year.
He had battled with cystic fibrosis – a life-limiting lung condition – his whole life .
Following his death, his pals talked about having a kickabout in his honour but had no idea the event would be such a success.
Around 50 of those closest to Stewart will be returning to Johnstone Burgh’s Keanie Park on September 8 for the match.
His family, including his parents Shirley and Ricky, his sister Yvonne and girlfriend Dionne Pearson are all backing the event which is raising money for cystic fibrosis charity, Butterfly Trust.
Chris and Stewart’s other friends organising the match are now inviting everyone to come along and show their support on the day.
There is set to be lots to do for both children and adults, including live music, raffles and games.
They are already blown away by the support from the community, which has helped them bag some top prizes to raffle off for charity cash in Stewart’s memory.
Chris added: “We want it to be a family fun day. We would love it if lots of people came along and helped show some support for the charities.
“We already have some great prizes such as a signed Celtic and Rangers ball. We have had a great response from people so far - here’s hoping we can do as well as last year.”
The charity match will take place from 1 to 5pm at Keanie Park.
Stewart would have been totally buzzing about this match and would have enjoyed getting involved