Last month, Bootham Old Scholars faced off against Wiggington Grasshoppers Under-19s in a thrilling charity football match that raised over £3,400 for the local children’s cancer charity, Candlelighters. The event was held in memory of Peter Woodmansey, who tragically passed away at the age of 17 in December 2020 due to complications from cancer.
Peter’s mother, Alison, reflected on her son’s legacy, saying, “He was a popular and kind boy who is missed by many. As a former Head Boy of Bootham School, Peter was a key member of the community and excelled in all areas, most notably on the football pitch. He had a passion for football, playing for both the Bootham School first XI and Wiggington Grasshoppers, as well as being an avid York City fan. He would have thoroughly enjoyed the match, which saw Wiggington Grasshoppers come from behind to win 2-1.”
The match, now in its third year, was organised by Peter’s friends, Freya Leaf and Charlotte Collinson, to honour his memory. This year’s fundraising effort has pushed the total raised in Peter’s name to over £33,000, which goes towards Candlelighters—a charity that provided essential support to Peter and his family during his treatment and after his passing.
In an effort to ensure Peter’s legacy continues, his family has established a special fundraising group called Team Peter, dedicated to raising funds for Candlelighters. Alison explained that all the money raised from Team Peter will now go to support a new research centre set up by Candlelighters at the University of York. “The research focuses on how to reduce the side effects caused by cancer and its treatment, some of which can be life-threatening,” she said. “This cause is extremely close to our hearts, as Peter died from sepsis, which can be a horrible side effect of chemotherapy.”
Alison expressed heartfelt gratitude to everyone involved in the event, stating, “We as a family are very grateful that you all turn out each year to remember Peter and raise money for such a great cause – it means a lot to us. Also, a big thank you to Charlotte and Freya for organising this event each year and to Dave, who organises Wiggington Grasshoppers.”
Rebecca Myers, Senior Regional Fundraiser at Candlelighters, commended Team Peter for their commitment to making a difference. “Team Peter is formed of family and friends who want to make a real difference to help other families going through childhood cancer,” she said. “We are so lucky to have their support each year in honour of Peter. They have raised an incredible £33,000 since 2020, not just through their annual football fundraiser, but also through special Christmas concerts, which was Peter’s favourite time of year. We are so grateful for their support, as they are not only raising funds for Candlelighters but also keeping Peter’s name alive by making memories.”
You can donate to Peter’s JustGiving page, where supporters can continue to contribute to this meaningful cause.
