THE inaugural Loathed Strangers Shield helped to raise almost £6,000 for the Prospect Hospice.

Sunday’s game - which ended 7-7 and saw the blue team reign victorious on penalties - was held at the County Ground and took place to raise funds for the charity which was chosen by Alan McLoughlin’s family.

The match was extremely well supported with a host of former players returning to take part, featuring alongside former and current club staff, and those who contribute to the Loathed Strangers podcast.

Organisers Rich Pullen and Chris Tanner, assisted by club staff Danny Lee (operations manager) and Steve Hooper (kit man), were delighted with the backing the game received.

Pullen said: “Alan McLoughlin made a huge contribution to Swindon Town Football Club during his career, both as a player and a coach, and the game was for him, to how grateful we are to him for his total commitment to the Town.

“We are so appreciative for the support everyone has shown, from the hundreds of people who have made a donation to the former players who played on Sunday and all those who put so many hours in to help put the game together.”

Sheryl Crouch, Head of Income at Prospect Hospice, said: “We have been blown away by the support and generosity shown by everyone who was involved in the inaugural Loathed Strangers charity shield football match on Sunday.

“The hospice has been hit hard during the pandemic and our traditional fundraising almost dried up overnight so this donation is extremely welcome as our specialist care continues to support those in the local area living with a terminal illness.

“I would like to thank everyone who was involved with the organisation and promotion of the event, along with all the fans, former players and staff who made the event such a success.”

To make a donation to The Prospect Hospice, please follow this link. 

The game was streamed live on YouTube and is available to watch here.