The scene in Water Street near the Liver Building in Liverpool city centre. (Image: Peter Byrne/PA)
The scene in Water Street near the Liver Building in Liverpool city centre. (Image: Peter Byrne/PA)
A CHARITY football match, hosted by police in Wrexham, will help raise money for those affected by the incident at Liverpool FC's Premier League title celebrations.
Four people are still “very, very ill in hospital” after a car ploughed into a crowd during the parade on Monday (May 26), the city’s metro mayor has said.
A 53-year-old man was arrested after the incident in Water Street in the city centre and four children were among around 50 who were injured – including one child who was seriously hurt.
Merseyside Police said the suspect was the driver of the car, white, British and from the Liverpool area, and added that it was not being treated as terrorism.
The Wrexham Police FC team has often raised money for good causes in the local community.
Since forming three years ago, the club has raised over £60,000.
Now, following the tragedy in Liverpool, officers have decided to raise money for those affected.
A fundraiser ahead of one of their upcoming charity football matches (details to be confirmed) has been launched and can be donated to here.
The team is hoping to raise a sum of £5,000 towards those affected.
In a statement they said: "At times like this, football rivalries really don’t matter. We’re going to use one of our upcoming charity games to raise money to help support those directly affected and the wider community during this difficult time. We will work with LFC to make sure the funds reach those that need it."
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They added: "What began as a day of celebration ended in tragedy, and in this incredibly difficult time, our thoughts are with everyone impacted. We ask that everyone allows the emergency services to do their vital work with space, respect, and support.
"Now is the time to come together, not just as football fans, but as people. Whatever team you support, we invite you to stand with us in solidarity. Let’s unite for something greater than the game.
"You’ll Never Walk Alone."
Sgt Dave Smith, who formed Wrexham Police FC, added: "First and foremost, my thoughts are with those directly affected by the devastating incident in Liverpool yesterday.
"As an Evertonian, I want to say that in times like this, football rivalries mean nothing. During this incredibly difficult time, my thoughts are with everyone directly impacted, the wider community and my emergency service colleagues that attended.
"In response, I’ll be repurposing one of our upcoming charity football matches to help raise funds for those impacted. I’ll be reaching out to LFC to ensure the money goes directly to support the individuals and families involved."