News June 2021

CARLTON TOWN AND WORLD GAME-CHANGERS
COMBINE TO PRODUCE BRILLIANT RESULT

On Sunday 30th May, Carlton Town’s Bill Stokeld Stadium played host to a sun-kissed Bank Holiday crowd of between 700-800 people; all eagerly anticipating a much-needed opportunity to socialise, enjoy a family fundraising day and witness a feast of football between a Carlton Town XI and World Game-Changers Celebrity XI.

On the football side of things, Carlton Town finished 4-3 winners against a WGC side – managed by Ian ‘Charlie’ McParland – that included Forest stalwarts Andy Reid and John Thompson; ably supported by Forest Ladies’ captain Lyndsey Harkin, and former Scottish footballer Mark Slythe, as well as many other talented individuals.

Carlton’s chairman Mick Garton elaborates: “Like all grassroots football clubs, we have struggled against the backdrop of months of lockdowns, and it’s not just the financial-side of things. As a caring club, we operate at the very heart of the Carlton community – providing chances for local people to engage socially.”

Founder of the World Game-Changers (Community Interest Company), Paul Lowe picks up Mick’s point about social interaction: “Humans are by nature, social beings and this truly outstanding event provided such an opportunity to be part of a memorable, remarkable day. It was priceless to be able to give people that wonderful chance.”

Both Mick and Paul are united in their immensely grateful acknowledgement for the dedicated, unswerving leadership of WGC Patron Gary ‘Boatsy’ Clarke. As well as Gary, a vast army of other unsung heroes – far too numerous to mention – all selflessly contributed towards achieving some pretty spectacular goals.

One of those goals included fund-raising, and indications are – with various monies still being collected – the total amount will surpass the £10,000-mark, being split between Carlton Town and WGC. Both organisations are now looking at creating future win-wins, including ways in which the Carlton Town Academy may continue to prosper…