FORMER SKY BLUES players will join forces with Myton Hospices for a charity football match in honour of Ross Blair – son of former Coventry City player Andy Blair and husband to TV actress Holly Matthews.
Ross, aged 32, passed away last year at the charity’s hospice in Warwick three years after being diagnosed with a brain tumour.
He left behind his wife and their two daughters, Brooke and Texas.
The Coventry City Former Players Association (CCFPA) and the charity will stage the match on Sunday May 6 at Hawkesmill Social Club – owned by former City player Lloyd McGrath.
It will kick off at 2pm and will feature former players such as 1987 FA Cup winners Dave Bennett and Micky Gynn.
Others who have confirmed they will play are Dele Adebola, Lee Carsley, Andy Morrell, Marcus Hall, Gary McSheffrey and Dave Busst along with ‘a few surprises’, the charity says.
Myton Hospices said: “Last year Ross Blair was in the care of Myton Hospice after a long battle with a grade four brain tumour, during this extremely difficult time it was incredible to see the level of care that Myton’s nurses provided to Ross and his family.
“Ross and his family have a strong association with football in Coventry.
“Ross’ brother Matty Blair is currently playing for Doncaster Rovers in League One.
“His dad, Andy Blair, played for Coventry City between 1978-81 before going on to play for the likes of Aston Villa and Sheffield Wednesday.
“Ross himself was very much involved with football at an amateur level in Coventry and was an avid Sheffield Wednesday fan.”
Matty Blair will bring his team mates to play their part in a fitting sporting tribute to his brother.
After his football career, Andy Blair went on to set up the Andy Blair Sports and Schoolwear store in Barker Butts Lane in Coventry.
Ross’ wife, Ms Matthews, appealed to her 16,000 followers on Twitter to get involved. She tweeted: “Friends, please come along to this awesome Myton Hospices charity football match being organised by my husbands best mates and Coventry City FC former players association.”
Gates to the match will open at 1pm for the event which is free entry.
There will be a collection on the day to raise funds for Myton Hospice where Ross spent his final days.
Plenty of activities will provide amusement on the day including a BBQ, face painting and a raffle.
Venue: Hawkesmill Social Club, Hawkesmill Lane, Allesley, CV5 9FN.
