Barnsley take on Scunthorpe United at Oakwell on Saturday 2 February, and we’re delighted to announce that this game will be dedicated as our ‘Cancer Research UK matchday’, supporting the only UK charity fighting all 200 types of cancer.
Monday 4 February represents ‘World Cancer Day’, so as our closest home fixture to this date we are calling on supporters of both teams to come together and help us blow the whistle on cancer.
Most people will know someone with cancer – whether they’re a colleague, family member or friend, and #WorldCancerDay is a global event that unites the World’s population in the fight against cancer. Cancer will affect 1 in 2 people and 330,000 people are diagnosed in the UK every year – but Cancer Research UK are leading the way to prevent more cancers, improve the outlook for future generations and help ensure that fans enjoy matchdays with loved ones for years to come.
On the day we’ll proudly welcome an army of Cancer Research UK volunteers to Oakwell who’ll be collecting donations at various points around the stadium. We encourage Reds fans to give generously and help thousands of scientists, doctors and nurses to deliver life-saving work and accelerate progress.
Club Captain Adam Davies is fully behind the initiative and commented: "All of us at Barnsley FC know someone who has been affected by cancer, so we’re proud to be dedicating our game against Scunthorpe United to Cancer Research UK. It’s something which could affect any of us in our lifetime, it doesn’t discriminate or follow a particular team, so as a football community it’s vital that we come together to tackle it.
“The incredible work that the charity does has a direct impact on the treatments available to people right here in Barnsley and the surrounding areas, so I really hope as many people as possible can help to support the cause.”
Stevie-Anne Nicholson, Cancer Research UK spokesperson for the South Yorkshire, said: “We’re so grateful for the support of Barnsley FC. The good news is more people are surviving than ever before, but too many lives are still cut short by this devastating disease. That’s why on Saturday 2 February we need everyone at Oakwell to unite and help blow the whistle on cancer.
“Every day our scientists and researchers are working tirelessly to beat the disease and your support ensures that this progress continues. Reds fans can help to bring forward the day when all cancers are cured.”
Supporters are encouraged to donate generously to Cancer Research UK, with several ways to do so.
- Fans can make a donation online now by clicking here.
- Fans can pick up a World Cancer Day wristband at Oakwell. The Unity Bands are now available to buy from the Reds Superstore with a suggested donation of £2.
- Fans can make a cash donation on matchday. Simply pass your donation to one of the Cancer Research UK volunteers who will be at the stadium on the day.
Every Unity Band worn, every pound donated, and every gesture of support will play a vital role in beating cancer, supporting ground-breaking research which is taking place right here in Yorkshire and across the UK.
Fans can also click here to request a free fundraising pack full of fun-filled ideas to help beat cancer.
Find out more about Cancer Research UK and #WorldCancerDay by visiting www.cancerresearchuk.org.
Together we will beat cancer.
