Wolves boss Dean Saunders supports event for Liam
Wolves boss Dean Saunders joined around 340 people at a fundraising dinner in memory of a young Staffordshire footballer who died of meningitis.
The Wolves manager and ex-Aston Villa striker spoke about his career at Walsall's Banks's Stadium last night during an event organised by the family of tragic Liam Keeling.
The 13-year-old, of Cheslyn Hay, died suddenly in October 2009 just days after falling ill.
The death of the pupil of Cardinal Griffin School in Cannock prompted his parents Andy and Georgina to collect cash for Meningitis UK. Last night's event raised £8,000.
Guests were treated to a four-course meal, while football shirts signed by former England captain Bryan Robson, Manchester United's Ryan Giggs and the Wolves squad were also auctioned off.
Postman Mr Keeling said: "It's gone well. We hold this event every year. This is our fourth one and we are about 100 people up on last year.
"Everyone has been in good spirits. It's fantastic that people want to remember Liam. He played football for Wyrley Juniors. He would have been very proud of this."
Wolves boss Saunders said:?"It's for a good cause. Liam's special to everyone. It makes you realise sometimes what you've got. I've had a brilliant reception from everyone here."
Steve Dayman, the founder of Meningitis UK, was also at the dinner. The 64-year-old, of Bristol, said: "I met Andy and Georgina soon after they lost Liam. Since then, with all the fundraising they have done, it's amazing. They have raised almost £140,000. It's a tribute to Liam."
The event was rearranged in March after Saunders could not make the evening because of a change of dates for a match between Wolves and Watford.
