The Kevin Beattie Foundation, an independent Ipswich-based charity named in honour of the club’s greatest-ever player, continues to make a powerful impact in the football and wider community.
Founded by local supporter Malcolm Thompson, the Foundation (Registered Charity No. 1192625) recently completed a series of memorable fundraising events in aid of the Darby Rimmer MND Foundation, raising an impressive £3,287.70. The money will help those affected by Motor Neurone Disease (MND), and also showed unwavering support for Ipswich cult hero Marcus Stewart, who continues his personal battle with the illness.
From Portman Road to Goodison: A Unique Fundraising Journey
In partnership with HALO ITSM, the Foundation organised an unforgettable and unconventional fundraiser: a pub crawl from Portman Road to Liverpool, culminating in the Ipswich Town v Everton clash at Goodison Park on May 3rd.
Travelling by train, the team stopped at Doncaster, Huddersfield, Leeds, Manchester, and Liverpool, visiting at least 10 pubs in each location to raise awareness of MND and collect donations. Along the way, they also visited major football grounds and met former players who generously contributed memorabilia for a charity auction.
Support from the football community was overwhelming, with names such as Chris Kirkland, Alan Kennedy, and Jamie Carragher offering their time and support. The camaraderie, photos, and shared stories at each stop created unforgettable memories while raising vital funds
Community Spirit Shines at the Red Lion Fundraiser
Following the journey, the Foundation hosted a funday at the Red Lion on Bramford Road. The event included a giant raffle, auction, live music, and a heartfelt tribute to Marcus Stewart.
On display was a giant Marcus Stewart flag, a life-size cardboard cutout, and a fan message book filled with personal notes from supporters – later sent to Marcus as a touching reminder of how loved he is by the Ipswich community.
Among the many donated prizes was one from Ed Lay, drummer of indie band The Editors and a passionate Town fan.
Malcolm Thompson expressed his gratitude:
“We were blown away by the generosity of the public and the brilliant support from regulars at the Red Lion. HALO ITSM played a massive part in making all this happen, and we truly couldn’t have done it without them.”
Up Next: “A Night to Remember Jeff Astle”
There’s little time to rest, however, as the Foundation now turns its focus to the next major event: “A Night to Remember Jeff Astle”, taking place on Sunday, 26th April 2026, at The Hawthorns, home of West Bromwich Albion.
The night will honour the legendary Jeff Astle, one of the greatest strikers of his generation, while raising funds for the Jeff Astle Foundation, which campaigns for research and support around head injuries and dementia in sport.
The evening will feature former players, tributes, and fundraising activities, and promises to be a heartfelt celebration of Jeff’s legacy.
Malcolm added:
“The fact we are independent from the Football Club, to be asked to support this event is an honour. Jeff Astle was a giant of the game, and we’re proud to play a part in remembering him in such a meaningful way.”
How You Can Help
The Kevin Beattie Foundation is currently looking for:
Supporters to attend the Jeff Astle event
Sponsors for the evening
Ongoing support from local businesses to back the Foundation’s wider work
Any companies interested in sponsoring the Foundation or contributing to future events are encouraged to get in touch. As an independent charity, the Foundation operates without official backing, but its growing impact across the football world is already being felt.
📧 Email: [email protected]
🌐 Website: www.kevinbeattiefoundation.co.uk
🐦 Twitter/X: @kevinbeattiefo1
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