Rivals lock horns for Joe Ford Cup to raise money for former Sporting Club Thamesmead manager

SPORTING CLUB THAMESMEAD and Welling Town will continue with their pre-season preparations and will lock horns against each other at Bayliss Avenue on Thursday night to raise money for Joe Ford.

The former Sporting Club Thamesmead manager was struck down by sepsis in March and has had one of his legs amputated and remains in hospital.


Joe Ford (right) followed his father Martin (left) in to football management.

“After being in a coma for over a week, which nearly took his life, Joe has since suffered further health issues including, sadly, an amputation,” said a joint statement from the two clubs.

“Now on the road to recovery, both clubs would like to support him and his family as he looks to finally leave hospital and get back to full heath.

“Please support the evening and please give generously for a great cause.  Even if you can’t make the game, please make a donation towards a young man that has had his life changed forever due to ill-health.”

The game in Thamesmead will kick-off at 19:45 and both clubs will be playing for the Joe Ford Cup.

“Firstly, I am glad to report that the amputation of my right lower leg was a success and I am now in the recovery phase, which will consist of plenty of rehabilitation and hard work," said Ford.

“This will be a very tough time as expected, however, I am determined more than ever to get back to full health as soon as possible and carry on with life as normal.

“There are no time frames on my recovery, however, I know with your continued support, messages, visits and all round gestures of good will, I should be back in no time.

“I would like to thank everybody for your ongoing support and understanding throughout the past few months.”