An ex-Suffolk hockey club player with Alzheimer’s returned to his old club to compete in a charity game, raising money for the charity for the condition.

On Saturday, April 8, Sudbury Hockey Club hosted an afternoon of games to fundraise for Alzheimer’s Research UK and Alzheimer’s Society.

One special guest was Steve Biggadike, past player of Sudbury Hockey Club during the 1990s and early 2000s.

Now in his 60s, Mr Biggadike was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s in recent years, but returned to his old haunt to reconnect with friends from times gone by.

There were two afternoon games at the Astro pitch, behind Great Cornard Sports Centre.

The first match saw the Under 20s versus the Over 50s, with each team representing each of the charities.

The second match was for those in between those age groups, with all match fees going to charity. 

East Anglian Daily Times:

There was then a dinner and drinks at the clubhouse in Quay Lane, along with a raffle to boost funds.

Harriet North, honorary life member of the club, said: "We had great weather. 

"It was attended by about 30 of Steve Biggadike's family. He was quite popular in the club back in the day, well-known and well-liked.

"The biggest surprise for me was that Steve played the whole game. He went on. It was wonderful to see. It took a while for him to get his bearings, as anyone returning to the sport after a long time would be.

"The over-50s won the game 2-1 so he was on the winning side.

"We came back to the clubhouse afterwards for a hearty Ploughman's. Some returning hockey players were there as well, sharing anecdotes about their time at the club."

The event is expected to have raised more than the target of £1,000, with £500 going to each charity.