PLAYERS who took part in an epic marathon football match at Dorchester’s Avenue Stadium have netted hundreds of pounds for their local children’s ward.

A 12-hour match was held at Dorchester Town Football Club’s ground to raise funds for Dorset County Hospital’s Kingfisher Ward.

The event comes after a group of friends of teenager Rian Harvey organised a similar event last year to raise £650 for the Piam Brown Ward at Southampton Hospital where Rian was treated.

This year they are hoping their efforts have raised even more, with the event including a family fun day offering stalls, refreshments and a raffle.

Cameron Dabbs, one of the organisers of the event, said that they also received great support from a number of sponsors including shirt sponsors Blacknoll Ltd, the Log Store Group, Barry Knight building services and Corner House Stores in Broadmayne.

He added that 45 players had taken part and, while the fundraising total had not yet been confirmed, he was hoping the day raised at least £1,000.

Cameron said: “There was a big difference from last year.

“Last time we struggled to get 11-a-side for the whole 12 hours but this year we had 11-a-side for the whole time with plenty of substitutes.”

Many of the players were there for the whole 12 hours, with rolling substitutes to give people a break.

Donations can still be made to support the players’ fundraising efforts at gofundme.com/awv7ud7s