Chelsea hold raffle v Swansea to add five-figure sum to Wales miners fund
Despite their reputation as a hard-nosed, non-compromising club, Chelsea have shown their softer side by raising a five-figure sum via a raffle and collection for the families of the four miners killed in a tragic accident in Wales this month.
Before the game, fans of both sides were encouraged to donate money to the growing fund to help support the families of Philip Hill, 45, Charles Breslin, 62, David Powell, 50, and Garry Jenkins, 39. The four men died when the Gleision Colliery in the Swansea Valley was flooded. As well as bucket collection at the turnstiles, Chelsea and Swansea fans in huge numbers also entered a raffle conducted by the west London club, which carried a range of prizes.
Although the total is yet to calculated, a club source suggested it is expected to run into tens of thousands of pounds.
The fund has already reached £200,000 through donations from the local community back in Wales, and other contributions big and small from across the UK.
Neath MP Peter Hain, who was present at the scene throughout the dramatic and ultimately tragic rescue attempt last week, described the response to the appeal as 'just incredible'.He also issued a special thanks to Chelsea FC for their efforts.
Read more: http://www.metro.co.uk/sport/football/8 ... z1YzIzdtqH
Good work Chelski!