Scotty’s Little Soldiers pass on their thanks to the supporters of Leicester Tigers and Northampton Saints for their generous donations to the bucket collection during Saturday’s match and their warm reception around the stadium.
The charity, which is dedicated to supporting the children of men and women killed while serving in the Armed Forces, invited young Aiden and Jordan Shirley to deliver the matchball in front of the BT Sport cameras and a capacity 24,000 big-match crowd just ahead of kick-off in the Aviva Premiership derby between Tigers and Saints.
Inspired by the experience of army widow Nichola Scott, the charity honours husband Corporal Lee Scott's memory – as a loyal soldier and a loving father – and provides a way for the public to show their appreciation for those who make the ultimate sacrifice in the service of their country.
The charity provides treats, trips and activities for the families of the fallen with the aim of offering a respite, however brief, from the daily ups and downs of coping without a loved one.
Children receive letters, cards, birthday presents, Christmas gifts, tickets and vouchers at tough times of the year, as well as help towards clubs, activities and holiday breaks.
Scotty's Little Soldiers currently supports 108 children of the fallen and have been able to purchase holiday homes in Great Yarmouth and Blackpool.
Members and their families can use these three-bedroom lodges free of charge whenever they need time away from the struggles of life without a loved one. The charity is able to pay travel expenses and members also receive a £100 gift voucher when they arrive.
The charity’s next goal is to purchase a third holiday home in the south of the country.
For more information on Scotty’s Little Soldiers, see the official website by clicking here.
