Newark Academy plays host to fundraising netball tournament
Thousands of pounds have been raised for people suffering from head and neck cancer thanks to the efforts of local netballers.
Nicki Glencross, from Newark, hosted a charity netball tournament at Newark Academy on Sunday (September 8) to raise money for Oracle Head & Neck Cancer UK in memory of her late father Michael Ford.
In memory of throat cancer sufferer
In 2017, Nicki´s dad was diagnosed with throat cancer after noticing a lump in his throat when swallowing. Radiotherapy was successful however the cancer sadly returned. In early 2020, he underwent a 10-hour laryngectomy operation and had to live with a stoma. In January 2023 the family received the devastating news that the cancer was back, this time at the back of his neck. It had already caused part of his spine to crumble away and because of its location, surgery wasn’t an option.
Nicki´s family were advised there was nothing the doctors could do and he sadly passed away in May 2023.
11 teams entered, supported by local businesses
As well as the tournament, with 11 teams from across the area taking part, the event also saw a raffle with prizes donated by local businesses including Norwood Park, The Wagon & Horses, Lyra Beauty, Ben Walker Fitness, and Eden Hall Spa as well as high-street brands Next and Morrisons.
The tournament saw local team the Aces win all 10 of their games and were presented with gold medals and goodie bags from Eden Hall. Local team Outlaws came second.
Nicki said: “There were lots of laughs and a superb level of netball was played. The atmosphere was brilliant, everyone enjoyed themselves despite the morning weather!
“I had lots of friends and family attend this year. It was great to see them supporting and cheering on the side-lines.”
£2,500 raised so far but donations still possible
So far, Nicki’s netball tournament has raised £2,500 for Oracle Head & Neck Cancer UK, with £1,000 raised in raffle ticket sales alone.
Nicki has extended her thanks to all of her friends who volunteered their time on the day.
You can still make a donation to the charity by visiting Nicki’s JustGiving page at https://www.justgiving.com/page/nicki-glencross
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Oracle Head & Neck Cancer UK is a registered charity in England and Wales (1142037), and in Scotland (SC052790).
Registered as a company limited by guarantee in England and Wales (7125497). Registered address: 80 Coombe Road, New Malden KT3 4QS.