Charity Ice Hockey Match to Mark Clutha Anniversary

Police Scotland officers are gearing up to play a hockey match to raise money for charity to mark the first anniversary of the Clutha disaster.

The officers, who are part of the Scottish Police Ice Hockey section, are due to go head to head on Saturday 29th November at Braehead Arena with their colleagues in the UK Fire-fighter Ice Hockey Team.

The event is being held to commemorate all those who lost their lives in the disaster and to recognise the efforts of everyone in the emergency services who were involved.

£1 from every ticket sold will be split and donated to The Scottish Police Benevolent Fund and The Firefighter’s Charity.

The evening will also have a prize raffle and spectators can purchase a variety of gifts and items which have been donated by local businesses and shops.

Braehead Arena is home to the Braehead Clan, who play in the Elite Ice Hockey League. The Clan and Braehead Shopping Centre have thrown their support behind the event, and the teams playing will be offered a unique opportunity to train with the Clan team prior to the match itself.

Constable Adam Wilkie, of Police Scotland and of the Scottish Police Ice Hockey team, said:

“The events that night will be forever etched on the memories of all involved, from the families who lost their loved ones in such tragic circumstances to everyone who supported the emergency services that evening and beyond and of course the people of Glasgow.

We’re keen to recognise and pay tribute to those involved in the disaster by hosting this hockey match to raise much needed funds for two very deserving charities. We hope to raise as much money as possible so they can continue to provide essential support to others.

Both Braehead Clan and Braehead Arena have been fantastic, and we’ve been very pleased they’ve been able to support us in our efforts. Regardless of the final score on the night, the event is being held to pay tribute to all who lost their lives in such tragic circumstances.”

Paul Morgan of the UK Fire-fighter Ice Hockey Team mentioned:

“The UK Fire-fighters team are looking forward to this, our first game against the Scottish Police team.

We are pleased to be helping to raise money for the charities. Our thoughts are with the families and friends of those who perished following the tragic accident last year.

A big thanks to PC Adam Wilkie for making this happen and to the Braehead Arena and The Clan for being our hosts today. We hope you enjoy the game.”

Gareth Chalmers, Hockey Operations Director of the Braehead Clan added:

“We’re delighted to be support this very worthwhile event. We are looking forward to a very successful evening on and off the ice, ultimately to raise money for the two charities.

“When we were approached with the idea by Police Scotland, we had no hesitation in getting involved. Thanks must go to Adam Wilkie, Braehead Arena and intuBraehead for all their assistance.”