WREXHAM'S off-duty police officers are kicking off 2024 by continuing with their fundraising endeavours. 

On Saturday, February 24 Wrexham Police FC will open their 2024 campaign with a mixed gender charity football match against the Happy Somedays, an inclusive club from Manchester.

The match will take place at Colliers Park in Gresford with kick off at 12pm.

Both teams are raising crucial funds for the North East Wales Search and Rescue (NEWSAR) who need to replace their current stock of five vacuum mattresses which are reaching the end of their operational life span.

Such medical devices are not just equipment; they are lifelines for injured individuals in some of the most inaccessible and perilous places.

NEWSAR volunteers provide the police, ambulance service and local communities in North East Wales with a highly competent search and rescue capability that can be deployed swiftly, safely and effectively.

NEWSAR is a voluntary service that currently does not receive any Government funding and require £30,000 a year to remain operational. 

Wrexham Police FC is encouraging all residents to support their match and chosen charity by donating to their JustGiving page.

Sgt Dave Smith, founder of Wrexham Police FC, said: "We’re looking forward to kicking start our 2024 campaign against the Happy Somedays.

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"We also hope to raise money for NEWSAR so that can are able to buy vital life saving equipment. All donations of any amount big or small will make a real difference."

The team which consists of off-duty officers was originally created to not only raise funds and awareness for local causes, but to help break down barriers between the police and the community. 

In 2023, the raised almost £19,000 for local charities across Wrexham and the north West.