By Community Correspondent Neil Shingadia

It started off a game in the park, but may end up improving the lives of children in Africa...

Students from across the borough of Hounslow united to participate in charity football match last week, raising money for the Wateraid scheme - which funds sanitation projects in lesser developed countries such as Nigeria and Tanzania.

The charity event, which was held at Lampton Park, managed to draw up to 50 participants – which was impressive considering the fact it was organised solely through a social networking website, with no advertising or promotion.

One of the organizers of the event, Hounslow local Damien McCullough, stated that the aim was to bring the community together through football, for a greater cause of helping to change lives. He said, “the money goes where it’s most needed. I was amazed at the amount of support we received; I hope more of the community will feel inspired to get involved in the future. ”

Whilst the competition ended with team ‘Springwellers’ coming out on top as victors, the result was of little significance as all eyes were fixated on the amount of money raised – believed to so far be at £250. This contribution can help make a huge difference, as WaterAid states ‘all it costs is just £15 for WaterAid to bring safe water, sanitation and hygiene education to someone in poverty’.

Mohammed Shahed, who himself comes from Bangladesh – a place which WaterAid targets – said, “the momentum that we could create through events like these can literally change lives. Football sets a perfect example for us of unity and harmony.”

However, the commendable act did not stop there; after the match, whilst the tradition of swapping shirts at the end of the match has become an integral part of football, instead, participants were encouraged to back the KitAid appeal – which donates unwanted football shirts to children and adults across Africa.

Overall, the event was a great success with overwhelming support, and there are now plans to hold another charity match next month. Whilst the WaterAid scheme typically advocates fundraising through the use of sponsored walks, the student organisers feel the urge to utilise football due to its symbolic representation; charity matches harnesses the power of football as a universal language that can break down barriers – especially in a period where World Cup fever is sweeping the globe – football is a sport where everyone celebrates, dances, and celebrates in the streets of their capitals, uniting nations.

The follow up football tournament is to be held in conjunction with the Sportalise Charity Cup taking part next month in Chiswick. If you would like to participate or for more information, visit the Sportalise website.