Sheffield ice hockey players set to take to the ice for charity

Ice Sheffield will be taken over by festive fundraisers on Monday, December 19, when 46 supporters of The Children’s Hospital Charity gather for the third annual ‘Christmas Classic’ ice hockey match.

The match has been organised by Matthew Newton, who attended a previous charity match, and supporters have already raised more than £7, 500.

The 34-year-old, of Hoyland, Barnsley, said: “I’ve played in charity ice hockey matches in the past, and I always played in support of The Children’s Hospital Charity.

“I was sat with my friends Craig Smith and James Hague after one of those matches and we just said ‘we should try and put on another match near Christmas time and raise even more for the charity.’ So a conversation between three lads having a beer turned into the Christmas Classic! James co-organised the event with me for the two previous years and together we’ve raised more than £7,500 so far.”

Players from as young as six to skaters in their mid-50’s have signed up to take part.

Matthew added: “Last year we just had a winner’s trophy, but this time I’m also looking at getting a trophy for the highest adult and child fundraisers.”

Proceeds will go to towards funding for a giant play tower for young patients at Sheffield Children’s Hospital. Visit www.justgiving.com/companyteams/christmasclassic2016