A TEAM of accountants have raised thousands of pounds for a hospice by playing a charity football match at Roots Hall.

Staff from Rickard Keen, in Nelson Street, together with a team of business professionals from other firms in Southend, took on a squad of bankers from Barclays at Southend United’s ground.

The match raised funds for Havens Hospices, which provides end-of-life care for adults and children with serious illnesses.

Hundreds of supporters turned out for the game, which was won 2-1 by the Barclays team.

Visitors also had the chance to have their picture taken with the Barclays Premier League trophy and take part in a charity auction full of football memorabilia.

Jamie Nice, director at Rickard Keen, said: “Overall the evening was a great success, despite our side being beaten in the dying minutes by Barclays.

“All of the team put in a valiant effort and my fellow colleagues, Scarlett and Dean, both played their hearts out.

“Everyone who came to watch the match seemed to have a brilliant time and I would like to thank them all for coming out to support us and this wonderful cause.”