Steve Dukes’ Star-studded Spurs Match Raises Vital Funds for EHAAT

On Sunday 14th May 2023, Tottenham Hotspur legends and celebrities united for a highly anticipated fundraising match, gracing Bishop’s Stortford FC’s ground – where the halfway line is the meeting point between Essex and Hertfordshire.

In memory of his father, Charlie, who passed away after a cycling accident in May 2020, Spurs kitman Steve Dukes organised the event, raising vital funds for the Essex & Herts Air Ambulance (EHAAT). With tickets selling out within 24 hours, filling the R & D Advisors UK Stadium, supporters were able to witness the reunion of iconic players from the Harry Redknapp and Martin Jol eras, including Jermain Defoe, Ledley King, Michael Dawson, Robbie Keane, Edgar Davids, Sandro, Aaron Lennon and many more. 

In the dugout, Harry Redknapp led the Spurs side against EHAAT’s celebrity patron Ray Winstone, who expertly managed a team featuring renowned figures like Yaya Toure, Joe Cole, Wayne Routledge, and a lineup of celebrities including Mark Wright, Jonathan Trott, and Billy Wingrove. It was a sensational sunny afternoon with no shortage of goals as Spurs won 7-1, with Defoe back amongst the goals claiming a hat-trick.

Stacey Wilson, EHAAT Fundraising Manager, said: “It was an unforgettable day with our fundraisers, volunteers, canvassers and supporters coming together to raise vital awareness and funds in our own backyard. I just want to say a huge thank you to Steve Dukes for arranging the fundraising match in memory of his father Charlie, and all of the players, celebrities and supporters who turned out in force.”

To ensure his dad’s legacy lives on, prior to the match, Steve had already arranged two high-profile auctions of sporting memorabilia in support of EHAAT.  This fundraising match was combined with a further auction running up until 18th June 2023. The catalogue features signed shirts from the match, alongside memorabilia collected by Steve Dukes through his contacts in the sporting world.

Emma Barker, Head of Income Generation for EHAAT, added: “We are so grateful to Steve for his unwavering dedication and commitment to supporting EHAAT. The spectacular Spurs match was a testament to his passion and the incredible generosity of the players, celebrities, and supporters who came together on that unforgettable day. The funds raised will significantly impact our life-saving missions and enable us to continue providing advanced pre-hospital care to those in need. I want to express our heartfelt thanks to Steve and everyone involved in making this event a resounding success.”