Legend on the Bench

Kindness Humility & Support.

Sometimes, life throws you a surprise — right when you least expect it. And in those moments, kindness, humility, and support can come from places you never imagined or even knew you existed.

That’s exactly what happened to me at Whitstable Town FC, during the Legends match between Herne Bay Youth Charity Team and Spurs Legends. Now, two days later, I’m still in shock.

Before the game, Chester, the manager of Herne Bay Youth Charity team, came over and said, “I’ve got something for you — I’ll give it to you after the game.” I smiled and said, “That’s fine,” honestly thinking he might’ve drawn a funny picture of me or something (it’s happened before – lol).

Fast forward to after the match. There was a Q&A session, which I was part of. It lasted around an hour, and I was already emotionally full from the day when Chester found me again. He pulled me aside and said, “Micky, I’d like to present you with this.”

He handed me a large piece of cardboard. I turned it over… and saw a cheque made out to Legend on the Bench. Then I saw the figure, £10,000. I was lost for words — a truly rare moment. I just hugged Chester and said, “Thank you.”

Chester presents me with the cheque, the shocked look was real.

That donation will pay for five Legend Benches to be installed across Kent. Five benches that will help save lives. Chester you and the Hallelujah Foundation have absolutely blown me away.

Its important to mention Herne Bay Youth Football Club is a registered charity dedicated to providing football opportunities for children of all abilities. With 34 teams for boys and girls, they offer a supportive, inclusive environment where young players can thrive both on and off the pitch. They are more than just a football club, they are passionate about giving back, regularly raising money for local causes and fostering a strong sense of community. Well done to all.

On behalf of Legend on the Bench, I want to say a heartfelt thank you to Chester and the Hallelujah Foundation for this incredibly generous donation. The entire day was filled with kindness and love — and to end it this way was simply overwhelming. I was so proud, I nearly shed a tear. I look foward to meeting the Hallelujah Team in a few weeks time to personally thank them.

Chester and I after recovering from shock.

Thank you for making an already special day even more unforgettable. Your generosity and thoughtfulness will stay with me — and with every life these benches may touch — for a very long time.

Thank you, all.

Legend on the Bench Team.