In loving memory of Ken Daynes

Dad (seen here with Mum in Canada) loved sport - it was often said that particularly if a ball was involved, Dad was passionate about it. In his youth he played played football and hockey, adding cricket and golf as he grew into working life, with darts and table tennis later on.

Why Ipswich Town Foundation? 
Dad followed ITFC’s journey from when we moved to the area in 1974, for him to work at the large glass building in Ipswich, Willis Faber as they were then called. One of our favourite memories of that time is Willis welcoming Bobby Robson’s winning Ipswich Town squad to their Rushmere Sports and Social Club - possibly an early example of ITFC in the community - Graham and I are in there somewhere!

Growing up in this atmosphere instilled a love of the club and belonging to this community, shared by our uncle and cousins with whom I would regularly go and watch matches.

Dad’s grandchildren have also benefitted from the happy memories of being part of this community throughout their childhood, be it birthday parties at matches or following the club generally.

Ewan in particular has grown so much during the Post-16 programme run by the Foundation, with experiences and discussions of his journey that he shared with his grandad providing lasting memories that gave Dad great joy.

Dad was a huge champion of women’s football too - following the Lionesses gave him great enjoyment, and so it is fitting that some funds will go towards the Post-16 girls’ programme, giving future Ipswich Lionesses opportunities too.

The Foundation also works with youngsters with disabilities, providing opportunities and a similar sense of belonging to the club and community that we have felt for decades, thinking back to that 1978 summer with the FA cup. The Foundation “engages with over 9,000 young people and vulnerable adults on a weekly basis” and we would like to help to raise as much as we can to support this in Dad’s name.

Seen here in happier times with Aunty Chris and Uncle Dave, we know Dad would be amazed if we could raise some funds for Ipswich Town Foundation in his name, so they can continue their valuable work in the community.

It’s proven that sporting activity, particularly in the community, improves young people’s mental health. Dad suffered with this during his later years when not able to be active - anything you feel able to give will be so appreciated and mean the world to us.  

Thank you so much,

Karen, on behalf of the family.