Community rallies for charity badminton-a-thon

Published by SanH for Sanctuary Housing Association in Communities and also in Health

Badminton enthusiasts from Sheffield are preparing to take to the court in a bid to raise at least £10,000 for the NSPCC, whilst hoping to smash their way into the record books.

Twelve members from the Sheffield Forum Badminton Club are aiming to break the world record for the longest badminton match, shuttling through 28 hours of court time. The team will be joined by special celebrity guest Alexandra Langley, the 20-year-old rising star of the badminton world.

Taking place at Firth Park Community Arts College, Shiregreen, Sheffield, on Saturday 22^nd October, the badminton-a-thon starts at 9am and is open to spectators.

Local residents can also get involved by taking to an open court on Saturday to play badminton.  With the support of a nationally-qualified badminton coach, there will be an opportunity to play for free and learn more about the sport.

Allan Ogle, who lives in Shiregreen and has organised the event, said: “Nothing like this has ever been done in our area before - it will be a unique day for local people. 

“I really hope that people come down, get to learn more about badminton, take part on the community court and raise some money for charity.  If we could also walk away with a new Guinness World Record, that would be the icing on the cake.” 

The free, action-packed charity event is supported by Shiregreen Community Homes as part of its Shiregreen Neighbourhood Challenge initiative.  Part of Sanctuary Group, Shiregreen Community Homes manages 2,500 homes in Shiregreen.

Shiregreen project director, Colleen Eccles, added: “The badminton-a-thon is set to be a fantastic day and we are so proud to have it here in Shiregreen.  We are excited to be sharing in such a great community event and hope to not only enter into the Guinness Book of World Records, but also to raise some much-needed funds for the NSPCC.”

For more information on the badminton-a-thon, please contact Allan Ogle by emailing sfbc221011nspcc@gmail.com.