Charity

Meet the Posh Mascot, aged 54, hoping to raise thousands for local hospice

Ian Gow with Sue Ryder Nurse, Susan Shackleton, from Sue Ryder Thorpe Hall Hospice holding the football top he has had especially printed for his Peterborough United Mascot appearance this weekend

Ian Gow from Oundle will be stepping out onto the pitch at The Weston Homes Stadium this Saturday as official team mascot at the grand age of 54, all to raise funds and awareness for his local hospice.

Just before the 3pm Peterborough United vs Lincoln City kick off, Ian will walk out with the team in front of thousands of football fans as the official team mascot, all in support of Sue Ryder Thorpe Hall. As mascot, Ian will also take part in the team warm up.

“I am going to be a mascot for Peterborough United at the age of 54; this is usually something done by children!” says Ian.

“I know this is going to be very embarrassing for me, but it is 100% worth it.”

“Sue Ryder has helped friends of mine and every one of them could not say enough good things. Sue Ryder does amazing work.”

Ian has so far raised more than £2,500 for Sue Ryder Thorpe Hall Hospice and is aiming to raise more.

It’s the second time Ian has supported the hospice too; two years ago he ran the Great Eastern Run which is taking place this Sunday in the city.

“I hope my support will be able to pay for something that will benefit the families the hospice cares for,” he adds. “Thank you to everyone who sponsored me.”

Nilesh Patel is Senior Community Fundraisers at Sue Ryder Thorpe Hall Hospice and season ticket holder at The Posh. He’ll be supporting Ian as he steps out on the pitch Saturday. Nilesh said, “Fair play to Ian for putting himself up to be team mascot for the day. I am sure he will raise a few laughs as well as raising vital funds so we can be there for local families when it matters.”

“We hope Posh fans will dig deep and support Ian in his football fundraising venture. Huge thanks to Peterborough United too for having him and supporting our hospice too!”

You can support Ian on Just Giving: www.justgiving.com/fundraising/ian-gow3.

For more information on Sue Ryder Thorpe Hall Hospice visit: www.sueryder.org/thorpehall.

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