THE COMMUNITY has stepped in to support a budding young footballer who faces the first Christmas without her parents in the wake of her mum’s passing.
Alyshia Sobers, aged 11, lost her father to a heart attack seven years ago and her mother, Pam Smith, has now tragically passed away after a battle with terminal cancer.
Alyshia, a talented young footballer who plays for Copsewood FC, lived in Willenhall with her mum and is now staying with her sister.
This is the latest tragedy the club has suffered this year after the deaths of club members Corey and Casper Platt-May, aged six and two respectively, who were killed by a speeding driver in February.
Charitable couple Helena and Marcus Billing stepped in on both occasions to unite the community around the bereaved families.
Helena has raised nearly £3,000 to support Alyshia’s family, through donations pages and fundraisers.
She said: “Alyshia stole a bit of my heart and I only started up this fundraiser with the hope of raising about £500.
“It is safe to say that as a football family at Copsewood we will look after her.
“Her and her team mates were mascots for the first team, and they contributed a generous amount to the fund.
“They have also arranged a special football themed surprise with the help of a former Coventry City player – but my lips are sealed.”
All those at the club have rallied around Alyshia and the teams observed a minute’s silence for Alyshia’s mother during their match at the weekend.
Alyshia scored on the way to a 5-2 victory for Copsewood after which she was presented with new boots by members of the first team – who all chipped in to provide her a gift.
The Pride of Willenhall Facebook page paid tribute to Marcus and Helena for their fundraising in the last year.
It said: “Over the last 10 months, Willenhall boy Marcus and Helena have more than gone the extra mile to help others in our community.
“… Guys you should be so proud of what you have done this year.”
