A partnership has been announced between a football league and a much loved charity in the area.

The Wessex Football League has kicked off a partnership with the Wessex Cancer Trust.

The union will build on the league's commitment to raising awareness of mental health and wellbeing programmes throughout its footballing community.

The FA accredited semi-professional league has membership of 40 clubs covering Hampshire, West Sussex, Dorset, Wiltshire and the Isle of Wight. 

The Wessex Cancer Trust provides emotional support to anyone affected by cancer and has support centres in Chandler’s Ford, Bournemouth, Hythe and Newport on the Isle of Wight.

The Wessex Football League will promote the charity’s support services through its website, social media, newsletters and award-winning radio show on Awaaz FM. It will also host a pre-season charity match between its Premier League Champions and League Cup winners, preceded by a pre-match lunch.

Nick Spencer, Chairman of the Wessex Football League, said: “We were really impressed with the charity when they gave a presentation about their work at Eastleigh FC. We represent 40 clubs who collectively have in excess of 600 teams competing at many levels; from under 5s to open age, all genders, disability, veteran and walking football. Partnering with them immediately felt like a natural fit for the League.

"Cancer affects so many of us and we’re delighted to be partnering with a charity that can provide valuable free and local wellbeing support throughout our footballing community.”

Sarah King, Wessex Cancer Trust’s Senior Corporate and Community Fundraiser, said: “It’s a real honour to have been recognised by Wessex Football League as a charity that can empower anyone affected by cancer in their footballing community to access wellbeing support if they need it. Quite often, people affected by cancer experience thoughts and feelings they’re not used to. You might not feel like you can discuss them with your teammates or family, and we’re here to provide a safe space to talk and process what you’re going through.”

Wessex Cancer Trust provides free and local emotional support to anyone affected by cancer. You may be having treatment, adjusting to life after cancer, supporting someone with cancer or bereaved. To find out more, visit www.wessexcancer.org.uk