Legend on the Bench

East Kent Spurs Fundraiser — Spurs Legends v Herne Bay Youth Charity Team.

Where does one start? Maybe at the beginning is the best place.

What began as a fundraising idea turned into months of relentless dedication, passion, and community spirit. East Kent Spurs, led by the brilliant Maria Howdon, with unwavering support from Ray Berry and their incredible team, took on a monumental fundraising journey for our charity.

From skydiving over the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, to long walks and Pagey jumping out of an aeroplane (thankfully not me!), to completing 72 holes of golf in a single day — and countless other incredible events — this campaign has been nothing short of extraordinary.

Pagey

It all culminated in a spectacular finale: Spurs Legends vs Herne Bay Youth Charity Team — a football match to remember. Spurs Legends having FA Cup Winners and UEFA Cup winners in their team.

Herne Bay Youth Veterans

Arriving at Whitstable FC for the big day, we were struck by the flawless organisation and the genuine warmth of everyone involved. The attention to detail, the smiles, the kindness—it was all so moving. East Kent Spurs and your dedicated volunteers, you should be immensely proud. Your energy, commitment, and love have made a real difference.

A heartfelt thank you to Whitstable Town FC for the use of your fantastic facilities and the incredible welcome you gave us. Your support meant the world.

To every single person who played a part in this journey—thank you. Because of you, we’re not just raising money—we’re saving lives and shining a brighter light on the importance of mental health awareness.

Huge thanks to the Spurs Legends and Herne Bay Youth Charity Team for supporting our cause, for giving up your time to make our fans happy, for helping raise a huge amount of money and for giving us a truly entertaining match. You made the day unforgettable.

Thank you to Tony Galvin, Mark Falco and Gary Mabbutt for doing the Q and A after the game was finished, it was very entertaining.

Thank you to the Young referees and linesmen and the old one (Steve Feiger)who gave up their time to support us—you were brilliant (yes, even you, Steve!). The future of refereeing is safe in your hands.

And finally, the incredible Maria Howdon — a true force of nature. She has given her heart and soul to organising this special day, and so many others. Her effort, commitment, and boundless energy have been nothing short of inspiring. Well supported by husband Chris, Ray Berry, and the amazing team at East Kent Spurs, Maria has helped create something truly unforgettable. We’re proud to share that she has accepted a role in our charity as a Local Champion — and with her at the helm, Legend on the Bench in Herne Bay and the surrounding areas couldn’t be in safer hands.

Maria, you are a legend. We love you, we thank you, and we are forever grateful to you and your incredible team of volunteers for your unwavering dedication to the life-saving cause we all stand behind.

Together, you made something special. Together, we made something special, Together, we are making a difference. LEGEND ON THE BENCH.