IT was a day to remember for staff and families receiving care at Mary Stevens Hospice in Stourbridge when top West Midlands goalkeepers stopped off to visit.

West Bromwich Albion’s number one goalkeeper Alex Palmer and Aston Villa and Finish keeper Viljami Sinisalo took time out of their busy training schedules to visit the hospice and chat with families about its upcoming West Midlands XL legends charity match at Stourbridge FC.

Accompanied by the founders of the annual match and funday, former Stourbridge FC player Matt Webb and Aston Villa coach Mark Naylor, the visitors were keen to see how the money raised from the annual Jane Webb Memorial match has been spent.

The event has raised more than £70,000 since it was first held back in 2016.

This year's event will take place on Sunday April 23. Tickets can be booked via the Stourbridge FC website https://stourbridgefc.ktckts.com/brand/match-tickets

Amanda Bowen, head of fundraising and lottery at the hospice, said: “It was a wonderful opportunity to show Alex and Viljami the care provided by the hospice and how important it is to our local community.

“The talented goalkeepers spent over two hours with us, chatting to patients, families, and staff, learning about the service we provide, including symptom control, bereavement support and end of life care.

“The guys donated some fantastic, signed memorabilia which will be auctioned off after the match with all charitable funds raised contributing to the cost of our vital care. “With a star-studded West Midlands legends squad and a stadium full of fans, stalls, food, and fun, we are looking forward to the charity match and to welcoming our community and supporters.”

Tickets are priced £5 for adults, senior citizens and juniors aged 16 and over, while children aged 15 and under will be admitted free with a valid ticket if accompanied by a paying adult/senior citizen.