Paul Smyth, General Manager at Wembley Stadium, has donated two pairs of tickets to this year’s FA Cup Final, taking place at Wembley Stadium in May 2026, alongside overnight hotel stays, to support North East cancer charity Team Solan, which is dedicated to ensuring that no one faces cancer alone. Through financial assistance, emotional support, and community initiatives, including practical help for families navigating diagnosis and treatment, the organisation, based in Spennymoor, has helped countless families across the entire region.
The charity is now offering supporters the chance to win this unforgettable experience through a special raffle-style competition.
For just £10 per entry, participants will be entered into a draw to win two tickets to the Emirates FA Cup Final at Wembley, an overnight hotel stay, and the chance to witness one of football’s most iconic occasions live. With two prize packages available, there will be two lucky winners. The live draw will take place on Team Solan’s Facebook page on 1st May at 11am, and supporters can purchase multiple entries to increase their chances ahead of the live draw.
Though now based in London, Paul Smyth has never forgotten his roots in Spennymoor, or the impact cancer can have on families. Having known Team Solan founder Mark Solan since childhood, Paul has seen first-hand the incredible work the charity does supporting individuals and families affected by cancer. His own family’s experience with the illness has only strengthened his connection to the cause, and inspired his decision to support Team Solan directly with this fundraising opportunity.
After reconnecting with Mark during a visit to Wembley last year, Paul was inspired to give something back.
Paul Smyth said: “The North East will always be home for me, and Team Solan is a charity that means a great deal to so many people there, including my own family. Cancer affects entire families, not just individuals, and the support Team Solan provides is incredible. I’m proud to be able to donate these tickets and hopefully help raise vital funds for such an important cause.”
Team Solan has become a cornerstone of support in the local community, helping families navigate the emotional and practical challenges that come with a cancer diagnosis, while providing ongoing care and connection when it is needed most.
Mark Solan said: “We’re incredibly grateful to Paul for this amazing gesture. His generosity will not only give two people a once-in-a-lifetime experience at Wembley, but it will also help us continue supporting families when they need it most. The response from the community so far has been fantastic, and it just shows how much people care.”
