A Beautiful Game

Today there are a number of important football games in the Premiership. The fortunes of teams, managers and players will depend on the outcome of these games. Clubs will gain or lose millions of pounds on today's results.

But the most important game of all was played this lunchtime at the Exacta Stadium in Chester.

Two years ago the club went into administration and from the ashes a new fans owned club was formed. Never again would an owner use the club for their own ends. It would be run by the community for the community. We were demoted to the 8th level of football and in the last two seasons we have enjoyed two promotions. But more important than these promotions is the ethos of the club. One club, one community.

Three weeks ago a young 7 year old Chester fan, Ciaran Geddes, collapsed and died playing football with his chums. Today 1700 attended a benefit match at the Exacta in aid of the British Heart Foundation, the charity chosen by Ciaran's family. Most of Chester's part time squad and players from our 2004 Championship team gave up their time to play. The field was also graced by comedians, Jason Manford and John Bishop. John's brother Eddie who played for Chester is a bit of a legend. As well as the players many others gave their time voluntarily to make sure that today's game went ahead: referee, linesman, ball boys and girls, turnstyle operators and stewards.

Ciaran's Dad came on and played in goal, making a couple of great finger tip saves as well as scoring a penalty. Here he is seen being congratulated by John Bishop.



Today's score is unimportant football was the winner.