Albion stars surprise Brighton pupils after trip cancelled

The group of Year 8 and 9 pupils from Patcham High School, Brighton, along with seven staff members, were due to set off on the five day trip to The Netherlands on Monday, July 7, on a football tour.

Before any of the children boarded the coach, it crashed into the school railings, causing the door of the luggage hold to come off.

(Image: James Boardman) Although nobody was hurt, cancelling the long awaited trip left the children feeling disappointed.

The community was determined to find an alternative for the children and the Brighton and Hove Albion Foundation delivered exactly that.

The foundation, along with Brighton and Hove Albion footballers Joel Veltman and Olivier Boscagli, stepped in to help just days after the football tour was meant to go ahead.

 (Image: James Boardman) The children were given a coaching session by coaches from the foundation before Joel and Olivier met the pupils, took part in a question and answer session and signed autographs.

Joel said: "We were sorry to hear that the Patcham High trip had been cancelled but hopefully the coaching session and the visit by Olivier and I helped to make up for the disappointment.

More than 60 children attended the coaching session. (Image: James Boardman) "It was great to meet the pupils and teachers and so many Albion fans!”

Assistant headteacher at Patcham High School Ruth Astley said: “It was such a special way to end what started out as a disappointing week for our students.

“They absolutely loved the training session and the visit by Joel and Oli was amazing. 

(Image: James Boardman) “The players were both incredible with the students, generous with their time and so kind and patient, answering their questions, signing their belongings, and sharing their love of football.

“Our students ended the week inspired, energised and full of smiles.”