Veterans from the Wootton Bassett and RAF football teams are facing off in a charity match for the centenary year celebrations. Money raised from the ‘Super Sunday’ event at the Gerard Buxton Sports Ground in Bassett will go towards the RAF Benevolent Fund.

The RAF FA Veterans side has played a series of fundraising matches across the country and overseas to mark one hundred years of the force, with the Royal Wootton Bassett Town FC Veterans next in their sights.

Entry for the event is free, but attendees are encouraged to donate generously. Funds will also be raised by players through their match fee. Last year the RAF Vets triumphed in a spirited 3-0 victory over Bassett, who will be looking to improve on their result on Sunday April 29.

Head of the Wootton Bassett Vets side Nick Warren, said: “We’re a relatively new side and we played them last year. Everyone’s really excited about it. Before last year’s game we probably would’ve taken the result but after the game we were disappointed to have missed some good chances. We’re a different team now though and a lot stronger.

“As a town we want to honour those that serve and have served in the forces.”

Manager of the RAF Vets Matt Beattie said: “One of the criteria was to hit the Benevolent Fund which is very close to home, and we’ve got a target of £10,000. We’re at £6,000 at the moment. It’s more pertinent now than it ever has been to support families affected by recent wars, including those with serving members and ex-military.

“We’re really excited for the match and Nick Warren [Bassett Vets manager] has strengthened his squad. I only got to know Nick last year and he’s been very inclusive of us.”

The average player is expected to be between 45-50 years of age, with the most senior player aged 67.

“The event really gives a sense of self-worth to retired vets,” the manager added. “There’s lots of reminiscing going on and bringing people together who haven’t seen each other for years.”

Due to its proximity to Lyneham, the Royal Wootton Bassett Town club is keen to build on the close ties between the town and the armed forces, particularly the RAF.

The Super Sunday event will feature two other football matches. The first will be the Bassett Friday Night Vets vs Bays Vets at 10.30 am, followed by the headline match at 12.30 pm, with the final match between the Bassett Over 50s and the Chippenham Yard Dogs set for 2.30 pm. A raffle and a bouncy castle are also planned.