Organisers of the inaugural Johnstone Cup have hailed the event as a “huge success” after raising more than £4k for St Vincent's Hospice.
Six local teams - Thorn Athletic, Johnstone Burgh, Roselle, Gladstone, Glynhill and Elderslie - brought the Thomas Shanks Public Park to life on July 6 as they competed to lift the trophy for the first time.
Hundreds of spectators turned out in the glorious sunshine to watch Renfrew outfit Glynhill eventually come out on top, beating Johnstone Burgh on penalties in a dramatic conclusion.
A night of fundraising followed at the Glynhill Hotel and Spa, compered by Jed McCabe of Legacycomps, as further funds were collected for St Vincent’s.
Organiser Marcus Gillespie and event partners Legacycomps and Thorn Athletic said they were “delighted” with the final sum raised, and hope the competition can now become an annual event on the calendar.
“It turned out a fantastic day and night and we are grateful for everyone's support,” said organiser Marcus. “The football ran smoothly with great talent on show and the teams playing in good spirits. The good weather helped and there was fantastic support for the event.
“We would like to thank everyone who contributed in a variety of ways, and our team of volunteers who helped out across the park during the event.”
St Mirren legend Tony Fitzpatrick, from partners Legacycomps, said it was a “magnificent day,” adding that “St Vincent's is a cause close to all our hearts - it was great to play our part.”
Mark McGee, chairperson of Thorn Athletic, noted that “it was brilliant to see all the football pitches in the town’s public park being used simultaneously for the first time in many years,” and described the tournament as “a positive way to support a local good cause.”
There was plenty of entertainment on offer beyond the pitch, with families enjoying bouncy castles, football games, live music and updates from DJ Kevin McLaughlin throughout the morning and afternoon.
The organisers later visited the hospice to present them with the cheque.
“We are so grateful to Marcus for organising The Johnstone Cup with Thorn Athletic and LegacyComps on behalf of the hospice,” said St Vincent’s Emma Donald. “It was a great event.
“It costs over £6,000 for a full 24 hours care at the hospice. We can’t do what we do without the generosity and support of our local community and people like Marcus, Mark at Thorn Athletic and LegacyComps. Thank you so much for your continued support.”
More information on St Vincent’s Hospice can be found at: https://stvincentshospice.org/
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