An Alloa man is organising a fundraising football match in aid of his friend who needs cancer treatment.

Darren O’Sullivan (23), originally from Sauchie, is holding a charity game next Saturday (29 August) to help his mate Liam McLaughlin (28) who needs treatment after a brain tumour was removed.

Brain tumours can often be cancerous or malignant, meaning that they are likely to grow back after removal. Liam, who lives in Perth, Australia, with his wife, Kate, and new-born baby Molly, is originally from Tillicoultry and needs to raise cash to receive monthly treatment to help fight the disease.

Darren told the Advertiser: “As Liam is a good friend of mine and such a well loved guy throughout Clackmannanshire and beyond, I took it upon myself to organise a fundraising football match.

“There have been previous fundraising events held in Australia and Clackmannanshire, but he still needs more help to get him the treatment he needs.” The friends met 10 years ago, played football against each other and went to Glasgow Celtic matches together.

The 23-year-old explained that the news of Liam’s cancer “really hit hard” and came just after Liam learnt that he is going to be a father. He added: “Everybody was delighted with the baby and then that hit.” A Darren O’Sullivan XI, made up of Darren’s friends under his management, will play a Liam McLaughlin XI, comprising Liam’s mates from his ‘pub team’. It will be held at Sauchie Juniors Park, Beechwood, gates open at 1.30 for a 2pm kick-off. Spectators are welcome. Entry for adults £5, U16s £3 and all funds raised will go towards Liam’s treatment.

Darren has also organised a band evening for after, which has already sold out, but is looking for donations for raffle prizes. To contact Darren with prizes or to get involved, email: darrenosullivan@live.com.