A football match between a team of formerly homeless people and Greater Manchester Police (GMP) Tameside has raised £2,018 for the Greater Manchester Mayor’s Homelessness Fund.

On Sunday 21st October, more than 500 people turned out to support the Emmaus Vs GMP Tameside Charity Football Match at Seel Park in Mossley. The Emmaus team, which included former professional footballer Andy Ritchie and staff from Oldham Athletic, mostly consisted of formerly homeless people who are now supported by the charity.

The match was organised by GMPs Tameside Division with support from Emmaus Mossley, Mossley A.F.C and Oldham Athletic Community Trust (OACT). The game was played in good spirits with GMP Tameside taking the win with a score line of 8-2.

PC Steve Naylor from Greater Manchester Police, said: “What a fantastic day! Thanks to everyone who made it all possible, to all the generous businesses who donated raffle prizes, Mossley AFC for providing the venue, OACT for securing the services of Andy Ritchie, Andy himself and Chief Constable Ian Hopkins for presenting the awards.”

“I want to thank and congratulate all of the lads from each team who put on a great show. Most of all, thanks to everyone who took time out, on a rainy Sunday afternoon, to come down and support the event. Without you, the day wouldn’t have been half as much of a success as it was.”

The Emmaus team included people who live, work and are supported by Emmaus Mossley and Emmaus Leeds. Emmaus communities support formerly homeless people by providing them with a home and work in a community setting. Each Emmaus runs different social enterprises, providing work and development opportunities whilst generating income to sustain the work of the charity.