The new manager of South Shields FC is set to lead a team of Salvation Army residents in a charity football match in aid of Amber's Law.
Julio Arca has spent the last four months putting the team through its paces ahead of the game at the 1st Cloud Arena on Sunday, May 14. The match will be held in memory of Amber Rose Cliff from Sunderland, who tragically died of cervical cancer aged just 25.
Funds raised from the event will be donated to Amber's Law, a charity that aims to educate people on the importance of regular cervical screening.
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In the run-up to the match, the Sunderland football legend has been training the residents at The Salvation Army Lifehouse, which provides supported accommodation to people who are homeless. The Swan Lodge team will play against a side led by Amber's dad Darren Cliff, with the game set to kick off at 1.30pm.
Julio Arca said he was delighted to support both Amber’s Law and The Salvation Army.
“I was surprised to hear that one in three women miss their smear tests, an appointment which could potentially save a life, so the work that Amber’s Law does in educating and bringing awareness around cervical cancer is vital," he said.
“The work Swan Lodge does to help individuals battling addictions and mental health issues is unbelievable. Hopefully, the wellbeing and football training I have been doing with the residents will help them to enjoy themselves on the day.
"We hope to see as many people there as possible so you get to see the fantastic work that these charities do.”
Following the match there will be live entertainment from singer Anthony Stringer. There will also be a number of items raffled off to raise money on the day including signed merchandise from Sunderland AFC and Julio.
Amber's dad, Darren Cliff said: “Events like this help Amber’s Law to spread awareness to people that haven’t heard of the charity before and hopefully they will tell others of the importance of booking smear tests and keeping their appointments. It’s such a short test that could potentially save your life.
“As with all cancers, if found early it can be treated. Amber, unfortunately, wasn’t given the opportunity due to routine tests not being available to under 25-year-olds and eventually we went private, by which time the cancer had spread.
"If her cancer had been picked up sooner she may still be with us, so in her memory, we are committed to helping others in the hope that lives can be saved. This will be Amber’s legacy.”
The match is open to members of the public. Tickets are free and donations can be made at the gates or throughout the match. Gates open at 12pm.
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