Asda offers grant in memory of Alan

ASDA Antrim has presented a £1,000 Asda Foundation grant to FC Moylena as part of their young futures fund.

The money helped the club host an emotional event in memory of Antrim man Alan Whiteside.

The 33-year-old was last seen leaving a town centre bar on December 17 2023 - but he never returned home.

His disappearance sparked a huge search that continued, in horrendous conditions, over Christmas and into the New Year.

Sadly it ended in tragedy when, after 51 days, a body was found on the shores of Lough Neagh.

Speaking at his funeral in February 2024, Pastor Stephen Thompson said that ‘hearts are breaking and words are so hard to find’.

Jim Smith from FC Moylena said they were pleased to organise an event so close to their hearts.

“FC Moylena recently hosted a pre-season competition in memory of our dear friend and neighbour, Alan Whiteside,” he said.

“Four teams took part - ourselves, Holywell FC, Randalstown FC and Twin Village FC - using the opportunity to prepare for the upcoming Ballymena Saturday Morning League season.

“We were thrilled to receive the grant from the Asda Foundation which allowed us to extend the event to the wider community by organsing a family fun day.

“This support helped make the Alan Whiteside Memorial Cup a truly special and memorable occasion.

“A heartfelt thank you to Ashley, community champion at our local Asda and to the Asda Foundation."

Ashley said that Asda were pleased to support an event that meant so much to local people.

“I was delighted to be able to meet with the team and present them with their cheque for the grant,” she said.

“It is so important to be able to help teams and the community all come together at events like these and I am so glad we were able to help.”