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Disability footballers take part in their own Remembrance Parade

By: Alan Smith ajsmith@thekmgroup.co.uk

Published: 15:30, 14 November 2023

Updated: 15:38, 14 November 2023

While some people gathered at their local cenotaph to pay their respects on Armistice Day, the members of a disability football team had their own ceremony at their training ground.

The Maidstone United Raiders FC Disability Section were visited by bugler Kevin Ashman from the Salvation Army, who played the Last Post for them.

The Raiders held their own Remembrance Service

He was joined by RBL standard bearer Roy Hallison, Maidstone RBL branch secretary Paddy Allum, and branch chairman Dave Naghi.

They were also joined at the Gallagher Stadium in Maidstone by two crews from Kent Fire and Rescue Service.

Around 200 players, with ages ranging from seven to 65, attended, as well as some parents.

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Club manager Lorraine Humm said: “It was amazing for my players.

“It's really important to share and educate your young players with disabilities, many of whom could not go to a regular Remembrance Day service because of their anxiety when faced with crowds.

The youngsters loved the event
Dave Naghi, Roy Hallison, Paddy Allum and Kevin Ashman

“So being where they train and in a safe environment meant my players experienced this emotional tribute to our fallen and serving soldiers.

“The firefighters also showed the kids around their fire engines and chatted to both the junior and adult players, who all really loved the exclusivity of the event.

“All really felt the emotion and thankfulness of the service.”

All the team members have some form of either physical or mental disability.

The club, which is now in its 20th season, plays at Faversham in the Kent Disability League, with one adult and one junior match a month.

Anyone interested in joining the club should contact Mrs Humm on 07880 907188.

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