Charity football tournament raises more than £1,000 (From Wandsworth Guardian)

Charity football tournament raises more than £1,000 for Ronald McDonald House, Tooting

10:10am Saturday 29th September 2012 in News By Alexandra Rucki

A businessman raised more than £1,000 during a charity football tournament, despite pouring rain.

Kalpesh Patel, owner of nine McDonald's restaurants in South London, hosted the tournament on Sunday in the Aspire Centre, Southfields.

About 70 members of staff took part in the tournament to raise funds for Ronald McDonald House, Tooting.

The house, located in the grounds of St George's Hospital, acts as a home away from home for families of children being treated there.

A total of £1,450 was raised during the tournament, with money helping with the running of the eight-bedroom facility.

Mr Patel, who is a governor of the charity, said: "Every year I set my nine restaurants a fund-raising target and our staff work really hard to make sure we meet or exceed it.

"This was our first football tournament and it was a great success, thanks to all the staff, family and friends who either played or sponsored us. The money raised is going to a very worthwhile cause."   

House manager, Jeannette Hill, said: "We are extremely grateful to Kalpesh and his restaurant staff for once again giving their untiring support to our Charity.  Their enthusiasm and commitment is quite amazing.

"Our House costs £80,000 a year to run and we rely on local fundraising such as this to ensure that we can remain open for families who are facing extreme stress and anxiety."

Visit rmhc.org.uk for more information