We’d like to extend our heartfelt and sincere thank you to every single person who came to the New Bridgend Inn this past Saturday, September 16th to celebrate the life of Christopher Barnett.
The decision was made in the immediate aftermath of our tragic loss to postpone both training and games for one week, something that was supported wholeheartedly by all involved. Throughout the past week we’ve continued to garner the unprecedented support of players, clubs and community members through messages of love and support, one minute silences at games and on Saturday, Barney took over Twitter as countless Tweeters changed their profile photo to the local legend in a show of respect.
It was also announced that on September 28th, there’ll be a special Evening With Razor Ruddock, the former Liverpool FC and Welsh warrior, at the Llanhilleth Institute to raise even more money for Barney’s fund, which on the GoFundMe page alone, now sits staggeringly at over £7,000.
It was an emotional rollercoaster of a day but one where we were surrounded by love and support, as we have done every moment of the last week. It means so much to us as a club and even more as a wider community.
To see Abertillery Excelsiors and Bluebirds side by side, irrelevant of badge, bravado or historic battles truly was a special moment that will forever be etched into the sporting soul of this wonderful town.
Barney would be impressed, in awe and elated beyond words that his legacy will always be one of friendliness, sharing in a common passion and a community that some towns and can only dream of having.
Seeing representatives of other clubs, close friends reunited and families all come together for a common cause is what it was all about. There may never be another day like it – but we’ll have always had this day.
Thank you.