Tavistock charity football match returns for second year in memory of local player

A charity football match is set to take place in Tavistock next month in memory of a local player.

The DW Cup will be held on Saturday, May 16 at Crowndale Road football pitch, with a 2pm kick-off.

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The event is being organised by Carl Willis in memory of his brother Daniel Willis, who passed away in July 2024.

Daniel played for Tavistock Football Club from a young age through to under-16 level. 

He had been living in Australia, where he was working in engineering.

The first DW Cup match was held last year, raising £2,000 for the mental health charity Mind.

This year, funds raised will go to Man Down UK, which supports men’s mental health across Tavistock and other parts of Devon and Cornwall.

ABOVE: Players will take to the pitch at Crowndale to raise funds for Man Down and honour Daniel Willis

Carl Willis said the event aims to both raise money and encourage people to talk about mental health.

He said: “This is to raise money for a charity that helped me after Dan, my brother, took his own life in July 2024.

“We want to spread awareness to all men that it’s ok to talk.”

The match will see Willis’s team take on a side led by Murrain, with last year’s game ending in a 5-3 win for Murrain’s team.

Spectators will be able to attend throughout the afternoon, with refreshments available before, during and after the match.

Carl Willis added: “Come down to see if Willis’s team can take the cup from Murrain’s team. 

“Come support us on what promises to be a great day for all involved.”

Organisers are also encouraging donations in support of the charity alongside attendance on the day.