NI fans raise £10k for charity at homecoming event

The Northern Ireland fans have raised £10,800 for a cancer charity through ticket sales for the team’s homecoming last month.

Proceeds from the tickets for the event at the Titanic slipway went towards the Cancer Fund for Children.

Sports Minister Paul Givan said: "The players showed their commitment to the jersey and to the Green and White Army , who travelled in large numbers to France, but also those who came together at home to create a unique atmosphere at the fan zones."

The team was welcomed home after their exploits at Euro 2016, where they went out to Wales after a 1-0 loss.

The event proved hugely popular, as 10,000 fans packed into the venue to see the team give manager Michael O’Neill the bumps and sing along to Sweet Caroline.

Irish Football Association president David Martin said: "It was great to have the homecoming event. It was a marvellous occasion.

"The players really enjoyed it and it once again highlighted the close bond between the players and the fans."