Rotary Newton Aycliffe is assisting Donna Scott with the creation of a lasting legacy to husband Darren, who tragically died in February during a football game at South Shields. He collapsed after becoming ill and died pitch side despite the best efforts of his teammates providing CPR whilst awaiting the emergency services. Darren was a dedicated family man and had many, many friends. He was also a well-known figure across the town, both as a football coach for Newton Aycliffe Eagles u15’s and as a player for Cobblers Hall Football Club over 40’s team.
Donna wishes to raise money to install defibrillators at grass roots football sites across Newton Aycliffe with one of the units already supplied by club sponsors, Securicorp (NE) Ltd to the over 40’s team and another given by Donna to the u15’s. Two more are ready to go to other teams this season. Fundraising is underway, and Rotary has set up a Just Giving page, link here: https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/newtonaycliffefootballdefibrillators
On Saturday 23rd July, a football competition will be held at Simpasture Park between 10am and 2pm. The contest will be named the ‘Darren Scott Memorial Cup’ and will feature 6 teams playing a knockout round robin formation.
Rotary members will be present doing a bucket collection with the funds going to the Rotary North East ’One Life’ Initiative who will be supplying the defibrillators. The ‘One Life’ mascots, Sparky and Casey, will be there to support the day. Also, in attendance will be community champion, councillor and passionate advocate for installation of defibrillators, David Sutton-Lloyd, who will be delivering drop-in training sessions on their use.
Please come along and help Rotary, along with Donna’s friends and family, to achieve her vision.
Grateful thanks to Great Aycliffe Town Council for the use of Simpasture Park football pitch and facilities and to Cllr. Eddy Adam whose guidance and assistance in the planning of this event has been invaluable.
Photo: Family and friends gather to support Donna flanked by Rotarian Tony Jackson with dog Cooper, Rotarian Stewart Wilson and Defibrillator Champion David Sutton-Lloyd.