Syed Qasim Abbas charity event raises £3,000

Qasim Abbas Funday

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A charity event took place in memory of Syed Qasim Abbas on Thursday 7 August at Kingsway Sports Centre.

Syed, 17, died three months earlier due to an asthma attack at his home.

The event, organised by Qasim's family and friends in partnership with Rochdale Youth Service, included food stalls, bouncy castles, raffle, henna and face painting and raised a £3,000.  

Three hundred people attended and donated generously to the three charity partners: Asthma UK, Qasim Abbas Trust, which provides clean water supplies to third world countries, and Palestine.

Qasim's father, Azir Abbas, said: “Qasim has left a hole in many hearts and cannot be replaced, but putting our energy into something positive for Qasim and the community is what Qasim would have wanted.

"I want to thank all those who supported, sponsored, donated and volunteered to make today's fundraiser a success.”

Mohammed Sheraz, lead youth worker, said: “It is brilliant to see the community come together and support a family in times of sorrow.

"I am also proud of the young people who have volunteered today and helped organise such an emotional event.”

The family awarded hampers of appreciation to Rochdale Youth Service and Rochdale First councillors Farooq and Shefali Ahmed.

Councillor Farooq Ahmed said: “Qasim was a local lad and it is our duty to support him and his family. We were not expecting to be awarded anything but thank you to all the family.”

Qasim's family and friends now look forward to organising many other events to raise funds for the Qasim Abbas Trust.