Get all your news in one place.
100’s of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
National
Matt Roper

'I lost my baby daughter - I was determined no other dad would feel alone'

Rob Allen was presented with his award by England captain Harry Kane, goalkeeper Jordan Pickford and former Lioness and broadcaster Alex Scott.

The 34-year-old founded Sands United, a network of football teams where men who have lost babies and young children can come together to grieve.

Rob, from Northampton, whose third child Niamh was stillborn days before wife Charlotte’s due date, said: “We lose too many men. When you are trying to carry a heavy load, it’s easier to do with more people.”

Alex said: “We all have the utmost admiration for what you do.”

After getting the award, Rob said he felt “overwhelmed”.

Rob Allen founded the Sands football league (Terry Harris)

He added: “Some of the stories in there, they feel more inspirational and deserving than what I’ve done but people keep reminding me, my friends and family that I brought tonight that it’s probably around 500 people that I’ve helped, so I’ll take the win tonight and be deserving of it.”

Spurs star Harry said: “He’s a credit to himself and mental health and getting men to talk and open up is an important thing when they go through that tough time.

“And creating a footballing environment, a sporting environment really helps for sure.”

Everton goalie Jordan added: “It’s the way he’s done it, from that first charity match and now he’s got 30 clubs around the country, he’s been amazing. It’s just a massive honour to be here with him.”

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100’s of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
One subscription that gives you access to news from hundreds of sites
Already a member? Sign in here
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.