Wrexham Police FC charity match raises thousands for boy with rare genetic condition

A charity football match held by Wrexham Police FC has raised thousands for a local boy born with a rare genetic condition and his family.

The team may have taken the matchday honours – but it was the club’s huge fundraising effort was the real story of the weekend.

In a match played at Colliers Park on Saturday, 23 March, the NWP officers and staff registered victory against a strong North Wales Dragons side.

The fixture was held in support of four-year-old Wrexham boy Louis Perrin, who has a rare genetic condition known as TUBA1A.

Louis also bravely battles epilepsy, cerebral palsy, and faces challenges with mobility due to severe leg spasms.

Led by the officers, a concerted fundraising campaign has now raised more than £13,500 – courtesy of some huge donations from famous supporters.

Ryan Reynolds, Rob McElhenney, and Michael Sheen were among those who pledged funds and helped Louis’ family reach their £40,000 target.

The funds raised will now enable the family to adapt their home for Louis’ needs.

Spectators watched on as Louis’ elder brother Teddy came on as a substitute and scored twice in Saturday’s game.

Speaking after the match, Wrexham Police FC founder Sgt Dave Smith said: “It was pleasing to win against a strong North Wales Dragons side, but the result is irrelevant.

“Today was about Louis and I was delighted that he was here today, watching on with his family.

“We feel incredibly proud to have helped Louis and his family reach their £40,000 target.

“We’re also truly thankful to each and every person that has donated, shared and supported our fundraising.

“It’s an amazing achievement by all involved and will make a real difference to the family.”

Wrexham Police FC’s next fixture will see the team take on Liverpool Football Therapy at Colliers Park on Sunday, 14 April.

The Merseyside club are a community project encouraging adults affected by mental ill health to use football as a recovery tool or as part of ongoing therapy.