Fans To Thank First Aiders With £16,000 Cheque

Friday, 20 August, 2010

CRYSTAL Palace fans will formally show their gratitude to the men and women of St John Ambulance on 21 August at the home game with Ipswich, after raising thousands of pounds in a heavily supported online campaign.

Hundreds of Crystal Palace fans clubbed together to raise some £16,000 for the first aid organisation, in direct response to St John Ambulance London being left with unpaid debts when the former CPFC went into administration.

A JustGiving campaign was launched by long-time fan, Paul Browning.

As a result of the marvellous generosity of the CPFC fans, a cheque will be presented to a team from St John Ambulance London on the pitch of Crystal Palace at half-time on Saturday 21st August, during the club's game with Ipswich Town

"The strength of feeling among our fans was very clear from the outset," said Paul Browning.

"As the discussion grew on the forum, I came up with the idea of establishing a Just Giving page - and it just developed a momentum all of its own.

"Before we knew it, people were talking about it on Twitter and Facebook, and the money was rolling in."

Talking about the overwhelming response to the fundraising campaign, he added: "I was absolutely astounded by the reaction to our campaign and I'm just so pleased that the power of the internet and social media has allowed us to reach this amazing sum of money for such a great organisation."

Dave Bell, Assistant Commissioner Operations, said: 'We have been providing medical cover at football clubs across London for decades. The passion and generosity that was shown in this effort by the Crystal Palace fans really goes to show how valued our work with clubs is and what a difference we make to so many.

'In addition to our members being strategically deployed to react quickly and carry out first aid when and where needed, we also play a significant part in discussions of stadium issues and are able to help put measures in place to ensure best practice.'

He added: 'On behalf of St John Ambulance London Prince of Wales' District, I would like to extend a huge thank-you to all those who contributed to the funds.'

For more information about St John Ambulance London Prince of Wales's District and its membership opportunities, call 020 7258 7014 or visit:
www.sja.org.uk

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