Alex Clarke, a forklift truck driver from Durham, will enjoy a dream come true next month when he steps out to play football at Old Trafford, home of Manchester United.
Along with 10 of his family and friends, Alex has the chance of a lifetime to experience the thrill of starring at the Theatre of Dreams having triumphed at a charity casino night staged by Betfred and Manchester United Football Club. Of the five lucky competition winners who received an invitation to the event at Manchester’s 235 Casino, Alex proved to be the shrewdest gambler and accumulated the most chips within the time allocated for roulette and blackjack.
He then went head to head at blackjack with Lou Macari, who had emerged on top from a contingent of Manchester United legends who were playing the tables at the same time, and the duo battled it out for a £2,000 donation to a charity of their choice.
It was Lou who edged the head to head, earning £2,000 for the MU Foundation. But Alex was overjoyed at having earned the opportunity to emulate superstars such as Cristiano Ronaldo and Wayne Rooney by playing in a full 11-a-side match on the hallowed Old Trafford turf on May 9.
“It was the best night ever,” said Alex. “I didn’t expect to win – I thought I would have lost my chips and been out of the running straight away so it couldn’t have worked out any better.
“I’m delighted to have the chance to go down to Old Trafford with all my friends and family to play on the pitch. That will be an unforgettable day. How many people can say they have played at the Theatre of Dreams? Not many, but we will be able to say we have.”
Lou Macari collected a cheque for £2,000 on behalf of the MU Foundation and hailed the evening as an outstanding success.
“It was a hugely enjoyable night for a great cause and the MU Foundation is £2,000 better off thanks to Betfred,” said Lou. “The Foundation works very hard all year round and the money will be welcome to them. They use it wisely and you can be sure every penny is distributed in the right way.”
by Jon Wilde 23/04/2008 BACK TO TOP ^ |
