Football match remembers murdered teenagers

Jimmy Mizen Pic: Milwall FC

An anti-violence charity will take to the pitch before a big Southeast London derby on Saturday, to thank fans for their years of support.

Before Millwall play local rivals Charlton Athletic, club managers Kenny Jackett and Chris Powell will welcome the Mizen family on to the pitch. Barry and Margaret Mizen will thank Millwall fans for their continued support for the Jimmy Mizen Foundation, which was set up in memory of their son, Jimmy, who was killed in a violent incident in 2008.

Nikki Walford from the Foundation told Eastlondonlines: “Jimmy’s Dad– in fact the whole family– are big Millwall fans. The club have helped out with a lot of fundraising since Jimmy passed away, and the Foundation just wants to say ‘thank you’ for the four and a half years of support.

“The day was originally set out for some more fundraising, but Barry and Margaret wanted to take the opportunity to say thanks. If people put in some money, great, but it is all about thanking the fans.”

Both managers will join Margaret and Grace Idowu and they will sign the ‘Peace Car’. They are the family of murdered David Idowu, who was killed at 14 in a clash between two schools.

The ‘Peace Car’ is a white Volkswagen Up and has been autographed by stars from the world of sport, music, politics and television. Mayor of London Boris Johnson was the first to sign the car in June. Since then Gary Lineker, Labyrinth, the cast of EastEnders and other celebrities have all signed it.

Tickets for the match are almost completely sold out, with Millwall stating that only 100 were available to purchase as of 3pm on Friday. Charlton will be returning to the Den for the first time in over two and a half years. Millwall are undefeated in 12 games and currently sit sixth in the Championship, occupying a playoff place whilst Charlton have won four out of their last five games.

Millwall manager Jackett said of the up coming match: “Charlton are on a very good run of form themselves and have picked up 13 out of the last available 15 points. Their away record is excellent and they’ve won their last two on their travels.

“Our players know that the relationship between themselves and the crowd is a vital one and that it is their responsibility to put on a performance that gets you on the edge of your seats, supporting them right through the game.”

The crowd will be able to contribute to a ‘Wall of Hope’, leaving messages on post-it notes that will “inspire youngsters for the future.” Volunteers will also be braving the cold to hand out flyers and wristbands that bear the Jimmy Mizen Foundation symbol and Millwall football club logo.

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