Disabled children across the city will benefit from a Manchester United auction which aims to raise money for its Ability Counts football programme.
In partnership with new sponsors Chevrolet, the Manchester United foundation received £17,564 from auctioning exclusive items donated by the American car manufacturer.
The majority of the proceeds were raised by selling a United themed Chevrolet Trax on Wednesday, signed by the 2012/13 Premier League winning side which raised £14,301 on eBay.
“The backing of organisations like Chevrolet is so important in helping us to continually develop our work in the community,” said John Shiels, chief executive, Manchester United Foundation
“This donation will allow us to improve our services for disabled people in the Greater Manchester area.”
The Manchester United foundation supports between 150 and 160 disabled players aged from eight to 40 years-old who are given the opportunity to play or coach with the Old Trafford first teamers.
By focusing on people’s passion for the Red Devils, the foundation help to educate, motivate and inspire young people in some of the most disadvantaged areas across Greater Manchester
Former United players Gary Pallister, David May and Quinton Fortune all were present at the auction to show their support for the campaign.
Some of the items that were auctioned included a Wayne Rooney match-worn shirt from his hat-trick match against Hannover, as well as a signed shirt worn by captain Nemanja Vidic during the Community Shield against Wigan.
The main attraction on the day was the customised Chevrolet which went to a lucky winner from Sussex-based Chevrolet dealer Frosts of Shoreham.
“We really, really wanted this car – it’s something very special that celebrates Chevrolet’s association with Manchester United in a unique way” said Director, Toby Frost.
“We are Proud to support the Manchester United Foundation, we plan to register the car and use it for promotional purposes to raise awareness of our Chevrolet dealership.”
Image courtesy of Christopher Long via Flickr, with thanks.
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