Harleston Magpies’ Santa v Elves annual hockey event raises hundreds in memory of former team-mate

Away from the confines of his famous workshop in the North Pole, Santa only had eyes for one goal ... and it was found at the ground of Harleston Magpies.

Everyone’s favourite man in a red suit was back to show off his prowess with a hockey stick as he took on his usually loyal army of elves across a series of matches.

The Santa vs Elves day attracted players of all ages, a giant Christmas pudding – and some less welcome guests, like the Grinch.

Organised by club members James Smith and David Manning, it is held every year in memory of former player and the event’s founder Simon Bardwell, who died of cancer in 2020.

“This year had the biggest number of players, with approximately 185 Magpies of all ages taking part,” said Mr Smith.

“Even though it was quite cold and damp, representatives from across the club played and we all had a good time, raising some money for a good cause in the process.”

With a quarter of all proceeds going to the Priscilla Bacon Hospice, which cared for Mr Bardwell in his final days, the club hopes to donate more than £500 from the day.

“It is our way of thanking the hospice for caring for Simon when he most needed it,” said Mr Smith.

The day included a North Pole challenge skills test for the club’s under 8s, a Rudolph round robin for its under 10s and a Winter Wonderland Cup for all club members.

“I knew Simon for about 35 years,” said Mr Smith. “Everyone at the club knew him – he ran the bar, he would have a game for anyone and, if you were doing something, he would always be available to lend a hand.

“For me and David to be able to carry this on and remind all the members of Simon with this celebration of his life is really something.

“We would like to say a big thank you to everyone who took part. Although David and I are the visible ones on the day, there is a team of people behind the scenes that keep it running. We thank them all.”