Monday 30th April 2018

Royal Wootton Bassett Town's inaugural Veterans 'Super Sunday' was an outstanding success, with £800 raised in aid of the RAF Benevolent Fund.

The main event was the fixture between Bassett and the RAF FA Veterans squad in which the hosts triumphed 2-0.

It was a high quality, competitive fixture and, in the end, goals either side of half time from Dave Parker decided the outcome. His first was a controlled side-footed half-volley from Steve Shaw's perfectly weighted cross, the creator redeeming himself after skewing wide from five yards minutes earlier.

Parker then provided an assured finish to finish off a swift counter attack midway through the second half.

That game followed a 7-1 victory for Bassett's 'Friday Footy' side against Bays Veterans. Martin Cooper led the way with a hat-trick, while Chris Cooper, Dave Knapp, Tim Lewis and Bryan Watson also chipped in with goals.

The final fixture of the afternoon saw Bassett's Over 50s beaten 7-2 by Chippenham Yard Dogs. Lav Cena and Mike Rouse grabbed consolation goals for the hosts.

All three games were entertaining contests and good value for the strong crowd who braved the elements on a chilly, windy Sunday.

Of course, the main aim of the day was to assist the RAF FA Veterans' fundraising efforts. Celebrating the Royal Air Force's centenary year, they have played a series of fixtures at home and abroad, with money raised going towards the RAF Benevolent Fund.

On top of the action on the field, for which all players made a donation, there was a raffle with generous prizes and collection buckets.

And it's pleasing to report the total raised from the day stands at £800.

After the action came to a close, a presentation was held in the Gerard Buxton Sports Ground clubhouse.

As well as presenting caps to those who have made an outstanding contribution to the RAF FA Veterans this season, their President Air Marshal Sir Christopher Coville presented club Chairman Andy Walduck with a commemorative glass trophy, which will be proudly displayed, as a generous token of appreciation.

A huge thanks go to all those involved with the organisation of the event, and all those who took part from the RAF, Bassett, Bays Veterans and Chippenham Yard Dogs, for ensuring that it was such a success.

It is hoped that 'Veterans Super Sunday' will become an annual event in the club's calendar, and an invitation was extended to the RAF Veterans side for a repeat fixture next season.

Last modified on Monday 30th April 2018 at 20:19.