Sands United Ashby Football Club is marking a special few days this weekend - starting with a Father's Day match on Sunday in Church Gresley.

Twelve months ago, Sands was formed for players in Ashby, and the surrounding area, who had been brought together through the bereavement of their children.

Sands United is formed in Ashby

Sunday's game takes place at the Moat Ground against Ronnie Rocket FC - and the following day marks a year since Sands Ashby was announced as a club.

Sands' Facebook page gives details of this weekend's game and says: "Our next match is next Sunday, 20th June, at The Moat Ground in Church Gresley against another amazing local charity team, Ronnie Rocket FC.

"There is a voluntary admission fee on the gate (you must have your temperature taken), there will be a raffle and both the hot drinks bar and full bar will be open.

"This one won't be just 'our next game' though - this one is that little bit special.

"If you hadn't remembered, next Sunday is Father's day, and we are a team of men that have been brought together through the bereavement of our children, a tough but very very special day for us - one that we are privileged to be able to spend together.

"To add to this, the 21st June also marks one year of this club existing and we can't begin to tell you in a short space what this club means to us all.

"Thank you to everyone at Gresley Rovers for making this possible, and we would love to see as many of you as possible.

"If your company is interested in sponsoring this match then please let us know."

Moira-based Matt Buckley was one of the men who helped form the club - and says it has grown faster than he expected.

He told Ashby Nub News: "We have supported around 30 bereaved men in the past 12 months including Fathers, brothers and grandads. As well as, in turn, their wider families.

"We will have played four matches in total including Sunday.

"We have formed great relationships with lots of local businesses, charities and organisations including the rotary and Ethan United.

"I remember talking to you 12 months ago, and this has gone bigger in than I ever could have imagined."