Rotherham United midfielder Will Vaulks has become Bluebell Wood’s newest ambassador.
South Yorkshire’s only children’s hospice has asked Will to take the role in recognition of all the support he has given the North Anston-based charity over the past year.
Will asked Bluebell Wood if he could volunteer after signing for the Millers in July 2016. Since then he has worked at the hospice every week, volunteering with the fundraising team, and also supporting the care team that looks after children and young adults with life-shortening and life-threatening conditions.
Will said: “It’s a privilege to do my bit for such a worthwhile cause. Since I first came to Rotherham United I’ve become aware of the valuable work Bluebell Wood does for families facing the toughest times of their lives. I’d like to continue doing my best to help this charity raise funds and encourage more supporters from across the region to give their best.”
Bluebell Wood Community Fundraiser Anna Gott said: “Will has been a brilliant support here at the hospice. He’s also inspired a lot of his team mates at Rotherham to do their bit by making numerous clothes and toy donations to our shops. He recently came along to our Fun-draising Club Christmas party, which was a great surprise for our members, and really involved himself in all the party games, thanking all our young fundraisers for their support and hard work.
“We’re delighted to have Will on board as an ambassador and are sure he’ll continue to do a fantastic job spreading the word about Bluebell Wood.”
Through being a member of the Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA), the first-team squad are encouraged to make a difference in their local community.
Many players, through our Community Sports Trust, often make visits to local schools, clubs and charities, with Will a shining example of what can be done.
For ideas to help Bluebell Wood support 250 families both at the North Anston hospice and in their own homes please visit www.bluebellwood.org.