The Children’s Hospital Charity has announced Sheffield Wednesday’s Barry Bannan as their latest ambassador.
Bannan has captained the Owls for 4 years and has shown support for the charity throughout his time with the club.
Last year he took part in the charity’s Women’s World Cup challenge, #5forTheo, shared the story of 10-year-old Sheffield Children’s patient and football fan, Ronald, to social media and auctioned a shirt to fans and raised an incredible £2,655.
To kick off his new role, Barry is hosting a sold-out event ‘An Evening with Barry Bannan and Friends’ at Sheffield’s Mercure St Paul’s on 3rd March, raising vital funds for the charity.
The Mercure event will be hosted by the legendary Steve Bracknall and includes a Q&A with Sheffield Wednesday players plus a few special surprises. Jon McClure of Reverend and the Makers will provide musical performances and guests will be treated to a three-course meal. There will also be a raffle with money can’t buy prizes, with all proceeds going to the charity.
Barry said: “I have visited Sheffield Children’s many times with the team, and it is incredible to see the work they do for children and their families. To hold this event and to be able to give something back to the hospital is amazing.
“We’re so grateful to everyone who is attending and it’s amazing to see how quickly the event has sold out. To spend the evening with a room full of fans and also support the Charity is brilliant.”
Jon McClure added: “I love Sheffield Children’s Hospital but I’m really only coming to see if Will Vaulks will do an Oasis song with me”
Steve Bracknell said of the event: “Nearly 25 years I’ve been involved in Sheffield Sunday League. Absolute privilege to share my philosophy.”
Bannan’s support will help the Charity to continue providing enhancements that are over and above the NHS provision for Sheffield Children’s.
Rob Gurruchaga, Development Officer at The Children’s Hospital Charity, said: “Charity ambassadors are incredibly important in raising the profile of our Charity, and to have Barry Bannan on board is very exciting.
“Barry is a local hero and by supporting us he will help change the lives of children from Sheffield, Yorkshire, and beyond.”
