Newcastle United legend Alan Shearer has sent a personal message to a big-hearted Tyneside couple who saved an African football team.
Crispin Mason-Jones and his wife Dr Ellie Bond have raised tens of thousands of pounds to save a sports club in the remote community of Mfuwe in Zambia. They are helping to transform the lives of scores of children through the kindness of strangers back home on Tyneside - which has seen the club named the 'Mfuwe Mags'.
Shearer, 52, the Premier League all-time record scorer, sent a 'good luck' video message.
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"Just wishing the boys and girls and everyone supporting the Mfuwe Mags all the very best," he said. "I am absolutely delighted to see you in the black and white strips, making everyone proud."
Retired architect Crispin, 60, of Newcastle, was inspired after travelling to Africa last year with Ellie, 56, who provided medical care to remote villages and communities.
He said: "The teams were delighted to receive the message from such a big star. It has given them a huge boost."
Ellie worked as the 'Valley Doctor' in the beautiful surroundings of the South Luangwa National Park. While delivering frontline medical care on sabbatical from her role as a Palliative Care Specialist in the North East, artist Pam Guhrs Carr told how their local sports club was going to the wall.
Ellie and Crispin vowed to save it. Their team work since has secured the future not only of the senior team but new girls' team and a successful netball side.
Crispin delivered £1,000 worth of black-and-white strips and 21 pairs of junior football boots to the under-15 side last year. They previously played barefoot on the hard, uneven Yosefe Secondary School footy pitch.
Pledges from North East businesses have safeguarded the future of the 'Mfuwe Mags' for three years. Fundraising continues for a playing surface, youth development and the women's team.
Anyone able to help can visit www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/start-art
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