Anchorians Football Club have presented a cheque to the Kent Deaf Children’s Society.

Earlier this year the club raised £4,200 at their annual Steve Cooke Charity Shield. The society is used by some of the club’s members.

A parents against coaches match took place with a men’s and women’s game at Anchorians Sports Ground,

The cheque was presented to Kerry Shadick from the Kent Deaf Children’s Society by club chairperson Leigh Willis.

Society trustee Shadick said: “We’re incredibly grateful for the support from Anchorians, which will make such a difference to the support we are able to offer our members.”

The parents versus coaches charity games were first set up in 2013 to give something back to the community and generate funds for a chosen local charity or someone or something with a connection to the club. They have raised more than £32,000.

Mr Cooke was part of the club’s volunteer workforce, undertaking the role of assistant manager for the boys’ Archers team.

He passed away on Boxing Day 2020 from Covid-19 aged 35, leaving behind his partner and four young children with the shield now named in his memory.

Mr Willis said: “Steve was a kind and generous person, giving up his time to support the team over a six-year period, always with a smile on his face.

“Steve always went above and beyond the call of duty to ensure that everyone can play football in a fun, friendly environment. He would be up the club four times a week and texting his team’s coaches’ group chat daily with new ideas and suggestions.

“Steve would be at every training session and match and even if his son couldn’t attend, he would still be there, showing what a true grassroots hero he was. Steve is dearly missed at Anchorians FC. He was an amazing dad, partner, coach, and friend who was loved by all.”