A goalkeeper from Mansfield is aiming for Euro glory with the England International Deaf Football Team — but needs support to help him fund accommodation and flights.

Alex Smith (29) has been picked to play for his country in the European Championships, being played in Crete at the beginning of June.

Alex, a former personal trainer who now works at HAE at East Midlands Airport, has to self-fund accommodation and flight costs because the Football Association does not yet fully fund the team.

He is already being supported by friends and family, and local companies such as Mansfield and Ashfield-based Fidler & Pepper Lawyers, who are helping to sell raffle tickets and will be having a Wear A Football Shirt day to raise funds for him.

One of the raffle prizes will be a Manchester United football shirt donated by the club and signed by the squad.
Alex said: “I need to raise money in order to pay for accommodation and flights for the championships, so every little helps.

“Please donate if you can, as this is a chance of a lifetime for me personally, but it also shows how much anyone, irrespective of disability, can achieve.”

Alex’s friend, Beth Hibbert, who works at Fidler & Pepper, said: “To play for your country is a dream come true for many people and Alex has the chance to play at a massive tournament. We’re trying to do our bit to help him, and hope that others can too.”

To help Alex’s fundraising, email [email protected] or donate online at mydonate.bt.com/fundraisers/alexsmith