Hitman swaps gloves for boots as memorial football game tackles domestic abuse

Boxing legend Ricky Hatton is the latest big signing to a charity football match in aid of victims of domestic abuse, which is being supported by Rochdale Borough Council.

On May 10, a team of former Manchester City players will be tackling a combined Police and partner agency XI to raise awareness of domestic abuse and funds for victims on behalf of Victim Support in Greater Manchester. 

The match will be played in honour of Linzi Ashton – the mother of two tragically murdered by her partner in 2013 – and comes following the launch of Rochdale Borough Council’s new Domestic Abuse strategy earlier this year.

Hatton will be exchanging his boxing gloves for football boots and leading the team taking on the City legends.

The football game, to be played at Ewen Fields – the home of Hyde FC - marks the start of a new campaign by Victim Support aimed at raising awareness and funds to help victims of domestic abuse, called #TacklingDV.

Victim Support report that domestic violence within the household increases exponentially during periods of international sporting events such as this year’s World Cup.

As the national charity for victims of crime, they are working to ensure that victims of an often under-reported crime receive the support and protection they need; to prevent a repeat of the terrible circumstances surrounding Linzi’s death.

The game will see the likes of Peter Barnes, Paul Dickov, Shaun Goater, Ian Brightwell and Asa Hartford pitted against Ricky Hatton, ACC Garry Shewan and partners including the fire service, probation and New Charter.

Both teams will be competing for the Linzi Ashton Memorial Cup, which will presented by Linzi’s mum Philomena in honour of her late daughter.

Tickets are still available and can be purchased in advance of the game by contacting Angela Stewart, of Victim Support, on 0161 968 4986 or tweet @VSManchester. 

Advance tickets are £2.50 for children and £5 for adults; tickets will be available on the day at £3 and £6. Tickets will automatically enter holders into a draw for a signed match ball.