A LEGENDARY footballer has spoken of the "terrible addiction” of gambling and says the charity he founded with his wife offers comprehensive support to those who need it.
Mersea resident Peter Shilton and wife Steph have spoken to the Gazette about a forthcoming fundraising night to support their charity, Shilton’s Silverlining.
The organisation, which launched in May, supports people with gambling addiction and raises awareness about the problem.
It offers a confidential service where members can access a bespoke brief intervention service which can provide advice about debt support and help with specialist therapy.
Shilton’s Silverlining’s lifelong support also helps affected family members and relapse prevention aftercare.
The couple have organised a night of food and live entertainment at Harbour Lights Seafood Restaurant in Coles Lane, Walton, on September 24 from 6pm to raise funds for the charity.
Mr Shilton, who is England’s most capped player, beat his gambling addiction in 2015 and has spent the years since campaigning.
Speaking on gambling addiction and the charity, he said: “I have lived experience. I know what a terrible addiction it is - it is terrible.
“You can lose everything - family, money.
“This charity is something that I want to do, and with Steph’s help and experience, we have put a really good charity together.
“It’s onwards and upwards, what we’ve done in a short amount of time is fantastic.
“There isn’t another charity out there like this which offers a comprehensive support system, not just for the gambler but the affected others.
“It’s our second fundraising event, we’re keeping it local.
"We want to make it a real fun evening. It’s worth supporting, and it’s essentially an evening of music.”
On the night, the former England goalkeeper will £tell a few stories” from his career and answer a few questions.
There will be a two-course meal, music from singer Chris Shannon, and magic from Chris Hare.
Dave Davies - the long-time manager of heavyweight boxing champion Frank Bruno - will compere the evening.
Mrs Shilton, the chief executive officer of the charity, said: “It’s going to be quite intimate. It’s going to be a music evening, lots of our friends are coming - lots of great supporters.
"We think the venue is beautiful. We’re so grateful for them letting us have the venue.
“The night is about introducing the charity to people so they know what it offers, and so we can raise awareness about gambling harm, especially post-World Cup.
“I think the event is going to be really relaxing evening.”
In the future, Mrs Shilton wants the charity to help reduce the stigma around gambling and gambling disorder.
Tickets for the event cost £60 from the charity on 07719 108171 or by sending a message on its website at shiltonssilverlining.org.
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