18 Aug 2025 Community

Spangled Bull Fundraiser Scores Big for The Kirkwood

The Spangled Bull’s annual community fundraising event once again proved a hit, raising around £7,500 for The Kirkwood with its inaugural KFA Cup football tournament.

This year saw eight teams compete in a six-a-side competition, supported by family friendly attractions including stalls, vendors, play parks and a DJ. Despite the familiar downpour, the event still drew between 200–300 people, many of whom stayed right through to the dramatic finale.

“It was incredible to see so many people come together despite the weather,” said pub owner Craig Taylor-Green. “Team Sky, led by captain Ben Storrie, clinched the win after a nail-biting penalty shootout against Team Yellow, captained by Aiden Wood. The atmosphere was electric everyone said how much they enjoyed it and they’re already asking about 2026!”

Craig praised the growing momentum of the event and the impact it is having on the local community: “The KFA team continues to grow, and with it comes more expertise, enthusiasm and excitement,” he explained. “This year we scaled up with eight teams, each with their own fundraising page, which created a real sense of competitiveness, it helped us double last year’s fundraising total. We’re already looking ahead to next year with a few tweaks to make it even better.”

Craig and his partner Danielle offered heartfelt thanks to those who helped make the event possible: “We couldn’t have done it without the support of our incredible volunteers, local businesses, and of course the team captains who raised the bulk of the funds,” he said. 

“As we’ve already mentioned, we have a fantastic team of supporters and volunteers behind KFA. The generosity and support received this year defines what this event is all about and Danielle and I could not be more grateful. We’d like you to give special thanks to the teams and their captains for raising the bulk of the fundraising via their teams JustGiving pages.

They are: 

�������� ������: Nik Townend

�������� ��������: Marvyn Browning

�������� ������������: Jonny Askin 

�������� ��������: Lewis Crank

�������� ������������: Kieran Morgan

�������� ������: Ben Storrie 

�������� ������������: Aiden Wood 

�������� ����������: Antony Collins

“Thank you to the referees Dale & Morgan Longley and Elliott Cooney for giving up their time to officiate the tournament over a period of 6 hours. 

“Very special thanks to our local partner in arms, Kirkheaton Youths FC for facilitating this event and providing vital on the day support from Marvyn Browning and Craig Challis, Fox Engravers for providing a fantastic array of Trophies and Awards, Kirkheaton Cricket & BC, H.O.P House of Phunk, HomesmokeHD5, Party at Cally’s, OMGee Bakes.

“Huge thanks to our main raffle prize sponsors Bobby Patel of Prashad Indian Fine Dining, Drighlington, Danny & Tara of Royal and Ancient and Huddersfield & Huddersfield Town AFC. 

“Thanks to Jessica of Be Reyt Deisgns who created the same fantastic last minute Bobble Head Captain illustrations as a special take away gift for the captains. Special thanks to the Spangled Bull’s very own team Blue sponsor, Mark of Reins Mill Garage & Paintshop.”

The success comes at a crucial time for The Kirkwood, which has faced a difficult year financially: “It’s infuriating and simply alarming that the charity has been forced to make tough decisions,” Craig admitted. “But it’s reassuring to know how many people out there are taking it upon themselves to do great fundraising work. Honestly, we’re blown away by the community’s response, it shows that even during tough times, people’s selfless values remain strong. Every pound raised will make a huge impact on the lives of those cared for by The Kirkwood, right here on our doorstep.”

The Kirkwood’s community fundraiser Julia Owen praised the dedication shown: “We are so grateful to Craig, Danielle, the Spangled Bull team and everyone involved in the KFA Cup. Their passion and commitment to supporting The Kirkwood is inspiring, and the funds raised will go a long way in helping us provide care for patients and families across our community.”

Craig added a final note of thanks: “On behalf of Danielle, myself, everyone at the Spangled Bull and the KFA team, thank you for making space in your lives, hearts and pockets for our humble project. The generosity and spirit we’ve seen this year truly define what our community is all about.”

Do you want to take on your own fundraising challenge or get involved with one of our events click HERE.