Former Norwich City stars help boost charity

Footballers got the chance to tread the same turf as their Canaries idols in a five-a-side tournament at the home of Norwich City football club.

Sixteen teams from businesses across the county went head to head in the Carrow Road tournament, watched on by former Norwich City stars Dean Ashton, Jeremy Goss, Darren Huckerby and Rob Newman.

But the real winner was the Norfolk and Norwich Association for the Blind, with thousands of pounds raised for the charity through entry fees and donations.

Yesterday evening's tournament was organised by Dereham-based recruitment company Jark.

Paul Mizen, the managing director of Jark, is a big fan of Norwich City and selected the NNAB to benefit because of his friendship with Mr Goss, who is now the organisation's events fundraiser.

Mr Mizen, said: 'There's lots of reasons for doing this, but the most important is that we raise money for charity.

'It's the second year we've done it. Last year we raised money for EACH and this year it's NNAB which is a very good cause. It's something we hope to keep doing.'

Ex-Canary Mr Goss said: 'I am full of praise for Paul for getting this organised and for agreeing to donate the money to the NNAB.

'We have got 16 teams here who have come here to raise money for the charity and to play on a Premiership pitch in a magnificent stadium. 'It's great to see my old team-mate Rob Newman here, who is my best friend in football and it tells you about the character of Dean Ashton and Darren Huckerby that they have made the time to come here and support the event.'

• Are you organising an event to raise money for charity? Call Evening News reporter David Freezer on 01603 772418 or email david.freezer@archant.co.uk