A CHILDREN'S charity in Cheshire has received a generous donation from Manchester United on behalf of Bobby Charlton's legacy fund.

The charity, Children's Adventure Farm Trust (CAFT), has benefited from a donation of £10,000 from the Salford-based football club.

It was made to the charity as part of the club's legacy fund on behalf of the late Bobby Charlton, who died in October last year.

Charlton, the football legend of 1966's England World Cup-winning squad, was the president of CAFT at the time of his death, and was a great supporter of the charity and its mission.

The club donated £100,000 to charities close to Charlton’s heart to continue his legacy.

This donation was allocated by the Charlton family to the Sir Bobby Charlton Foundation, Alzheimer’s Society and the Children’s Adventure Farm Trust.

Knutsford Guardian: The Manchester United legend had many charities close to his heart, including CAFT near LymmThe Manchester United legend had many charities close to his heart, including CAFT near Lymm (Image: PA)

Bobby Charlton became president of the charity in 2000 and was dedicated to the charity’s work helping ill, disabled and socially disadvantaged children from all over the north west.

Along with Lady Norma (who is a patron of the charity), he spent many hours at CAFT during his time as president, and was heavily involved in fundraising.

Helen Crowther, fundraiser at CAFT said: “We’re so touched that Lady Norma and her family have thought of CAFT when allocating this generous donation from Manchester United.

"This is such a fitting tribute to Sir Bobby, and I’m certain he would be so proud that his support of the children visiting CAFT continues. 

"This £10,000 donation will provide day visits to CAFT in 2024 for 1,000 children from our region whose lives are impacted by illness, disability and social disadvantage.

"It’s hard to put into words the difference we can make in the lives of these children thanks to this wonderful donation.”

Lady Norma Charlton, Bobby’s wife, said: “On behalf of the family I want to thank everyone, not only for the donations but also the love and support they have showed following Bobby’s passing, the response has been nothing short of remarkable.

“I know Bobby would be so proud of the impact the funds donated will have on so many lives – as a family we are engaged with these charities and will see firsthand the difference they will make.

“This collective effort embodies the true spirit of our football family and ensures that Bobby’s legacy lives on.”