Glenavon team management, backroom staff, players, directors, the club President and a few fans yesterday supported two events organised in aid of the Mark Farren Treatment Fund. The first was at the Brandywell in the afternoon when a Derry City XI (managed by Martin O’Neill) played a Northern Ireland X1 (managed by Michael O’Neill). Featuring for Michael O’Neill’s side (which constantly chopped and changed) were Gary Hamilton, Rhys Marshall, Andy McGrory and Mark Sykes. The side was captained by James Singleton. Turning out for Martin O’Neill’s side were former Glenavon players Pat Jennings and Eddie McCallion whilst Eoin Bradley played up front. The NI X1 led 4-0 at half time and won the game 4-3.

In the evening the entire Glenavon party attended a gala fundraising dinner and auction in the Everglades Hotel. Over 300 people were present. Following the dinner there were short speeches from Dundalk and former Derry City manager Stephen Kenny and from Gary Hamilton. There was also a musical spot by Phil Coulter. The auction was conduced by “May McFetridge” whilst Liam Beckett acted as MC.

Mark and his wife Terri-Louise attended both the game and the dinner. They leave tomorrow on the journey to Mexico for Mark to commence his urgent treatment and they will remain there until the end of June.

Everyone at Glenavon Football Club wishes Mark well, he is in our thoughts and prayers.