A FOOTBALL team has been set up in Blackburn inspired by a 17-month-old girl who died from cancer last month.

Poppy-Mai North FC already have a friendly game next month against Kettering Town set up.

The team will fundraise in memory of Poppy-Mai Barnard, whose parents Andy and Sammi hail from the Infirmary area.

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Poppy-Mai died on May 3 after being diagnosed with a malignant rhabdoid tumour, a very rare aggressive child cancer.

The team, which includes Poppy-Mai’s uncle Jonathan Baker, will play football up and down the country raising funds to help her family with their dream of building Poppy’s Field, which will be a sanctuary for terminally ill children where they can go with their families to make everlasting memories.

Poppy-Mai North FC have already been kit sponsored by Raj Indian Cuisine in Bolton Road.

Committee member Danielle Smith said: “We want to raise as much money as we can to help towards helping Poppy’s family achieve their dream.

“We have a massive game against Kettering Town FC on July 23 held at their ground Latimer Park, kick off 3pm.

“They have kindly stated that all the proceeds from the ticket sales will be donated to Poppy-Mai North FC.

“We are arranging travel to and from the game.”

Sammi, a former St Bede’s pupil and Andrew, who went to Witton High School, currently live in Thetford in Norfolk, as Andrew serves in the RAF and is stationed nearby.

They have given their blessing and support to the team.

Blackburn based coaches Dean Clarke and Tim Cassidy are the managers of the team.

Prices for adults are £16 pound and children £12 pounds (ticket and travel).

They will also hold training sessions every Sunday 11.30am at the astro turf at Witton Park.

For details call Danielle Smith 07522 072313 or Karen Cassidy on 07599 396641.