Cornwall stores support Argyle Legends match in memory of popular Truro architect

SPECSAVERS stores in Cornwall are sponsoring a Plymouth Argyle Legends fundraising football match for a Truro family whose father died at the age of 49 last year.

The stores in Falmouth, Helston, Redruth, Camborne, Truro, St Austell and Newquay are each offering £100 – £700 in total – towards the sum raised by the match, which will boast some of Argyle’s finest former footballers.

Players such as Matt Worthington and Garrie Follett will grace the turf again when they turn out for the home team at Trispen Football Club’s pitch, just outside Truro, in memory of Tony Smith, who was a passionate football fan and played for two five-a-side teams in the area.

The match, organized by players from the teams Tony played for, will raise funds for his family.

Among those taking part in the match will be Tony’s teammate Paul McGrane, director of the Specsavers stores in Falmouth and Helston.

Paul, a keen athlete and supporter of local sports teams, said that Tony’s death was a terrible shock for all who knew him.

He adds: ‘I’m really grateful to my colleagues from other Cornwall stores who are supporting this occasion in support of Tony’s family.

‘Tony really was a lovely guy. He was a happy and energetic person who loved his sport, particularly football.

‘His loss has hit everyone who knew him very hard, especially his family, and this football match with legends from Plymouth Argyle is a perfect tribute to Tony.

‘It would be wonderful to see a big turnout from members of the public for the match. Everyone’s welcome – Argyle fans, friends of Tony’s and anyone who enjoys a good football match. Donations can be made on the day and raffle tickets will be available.’

Tony is survived by his wife, Billie, and two children. A Go-Fund-Me page has been set up for them by Tony’s friends at https://www.gofundme.com/f/tony-smith-memorial-event. More than £3,500 has been raised so far.

The web page says: ‘Our friend, Tony Smith, sadly passed away in November 2020, which was a big shock and massive loss to all that knew him. Tony was a loving father and husband and a well respected architect.’

The Plymouth Argyle Legends fundraising match will take place on 17 October at 2pm. It will be followed by a social gathering and live music at the St Erme Community Centre bar.

To find out more about what will be happening on the day, visit https://tonysmithmemorial.co.uk/