On Saturday 11 January at 2pm, the Bangor City Stadium will host a fundraising match between the Wales Armed Forces Veterans Football Club and a team composed of fans and former players of Bangor 1876.

The event will help to raise money for the veterans’ team as they prepare to represent Wales in the 2025 Warriors World Cup. The Wales Armed Forces Veterans football team will participate in the first ever Military Veterans Football World Cup and will compete against England, Scotland, Northern Ireland, USA, Germany, Napal and Jamaca for the bragging rights of being the first winners of the Warriors World Cup later this year.

This Saturday’s match will also support the following community and mental health initiatives in the Bangor area:

- Maes Ni, who are raising funds to put towards a music recording studio for the young people in Bangor.
- The Hergest ward at Ysbyty Gwynedd, who are seeking to provide toiletries and clothing to people who are admitted and very few possessions.
- The Abbey Road drop-in centre.
- MenTribe, a men’s peer-to-peer support group that focuses on building resilience and fostering mental and physical well-being through outdoor challenges
- North Wales Recovery Communities’ work to establish long term recovery from substance misuse.

The ground will be open from 11am and entry will cost £5 for adults and £2.50 for children and concessions. Payments will need to be made by cash only. There will also be a fundraising raffle.

Colin Jones, who is the chair of the Wales Armed Forces Veterans Football Club has explained that it performs an important role:

“The Wales Armed Forces Veterans Football Club is a significant milestone for the veteran community in Wales and the rest of the UK. This team offers a sporting voice and a chance to focus on the future, especially for those who have faced mental challenges due to past traumatic experiences. With a strong sense of camaraderie, teamwork, and pride, this club helps veterans reconnect and thrive after their service.“

Colin also explained that he is very much looking forward to the event:

“The club is delighted to be asked to play on Bangor 1876 special day, and all involved with Wales Armed Forces Veteran FC are grateful for the invite. As with most major events those who sit in the shadows are the unsung heroes and possibly this event wouldn’t take place without their determination, drive and vision. So, all member of the Armed Forces Veterans team would like to thank Bangor 1876 fan Eilian Williams (Mash) and Antonia Vance from Bangor City Stadium for their welcome support, guidance and assistance and all members of the committee and club for the opportunity to share and be part of your city’s celebrations as part of Bangor 1500.”

Please support this game if you can.