Honouring Andy Grier: A Family's Mission to Fight Brain Tumours Through Fundraising

On Sunday, February 9th, 2025, Hull Prison staff and SLC United came together for an incredible cause—a charity football match at Haworth Park in Hull, raising vital funds for Yorkshire’s Brain Tumour Charity (YBTC). This event, driven by the passion and dedication of Charline Grier, her family, and a supportive community, was held in memory of her father, Andy Grier, a beloved colleague, husband, father, and friend.

Remembering Andy Grier

Andy during his time as a member of staff at Hull Prison.

Andy Grier was a well-respected member of the Hull community. Born and raised in Hull, he dedicated over 30 years of his life to working at Hull Prison. After his retirement, Andy received a devastating diagnosis—a grade four glioblastoma, an aggressive form of brain cancer. His daughter, Charline, described the impact of his illness on their close-knit family:

“My dad was the centre of our family. He was strong, active, and full of life—always walking, playing squash, and keeping busy. When he was diagnosed, everything changed overnight. He went downhill really rapidly, and we lost him just four months later. It left a massive void in our lives.”

Despite their grief, Charline and her family channelled their experiences into purpose, working tirelessly to support YBTC and help other families affected by brain tumours.

Turning Tragedy into Positive Change

The charity football match was one of many fundraising efforts organised by Andy’s family and friends. Prison officers and SLC United (Supporting Local Causes) came together to play in his honour, raising an impressive £615 on the day. But this was just one piece of a much larger fundraising movement led by Charline and her loved ones.

“We’ve done so much to keep Dad’s memory alive and to help others,” Charline shared. “My son, Toby, held a Crazy Hat Day at school, I completed a swimming challenge where I swam a mile every day for a month, and a big group of staff from the prison took on the Yorkshire Three Peaks. My dad’s friend, Mel, even ran the Leeds Marathon! Everyone has done something to contribute.”

Football: A Fitting Tribute

When deciding on a fundraising event, a football match seemed like the perfect choice.

A member of Hull Prison Staff celebrates his goal for Andy.

Charline’s partner, Carl, plays for a charity team and was eager to organise a match to raise funds for YBTC. Given Andy’s strong connections with Hull Prison, Carl reached out to the prison officers to get involved, and they responded with enthusiasm.

“Dad was incredibly well-liked,” Charline recalled. “At his funeral, there was a guard of honour, and hundreds of people attended. Seeing the prison staff come together for this event showed just how much he meant to them.”

Prison staff member Alex Smith also played a huge role in fundraising. He spent four mornings standing at the prison gate collecting donations while proudly wearing a Hull KR rugby shirt—knowing Andy was a massive Rovers fan. He also auctioned off memorabilia to raise even more funds.

Making a Difference for Brain Tumour Patients

For Charline and her family, fundraising isn’t just about honouring Andy’s memory—it’s about driving change for brain tumour patients across Yorkshire.

Charline told the team at YBTC: “Brain tumours are so common, yet treatment options haven’t changed in 40 years. The treatments are still brutal. We need to push for more research and better options,” Charline emphasised. “YBTC was amazing when Dad was diagnosed, and we want to keep supporting them every year.”

With continued fundraising efforts, Andy’s legacy will live on—not only in the hearts of those who knew him but in the lives of brain tumour patients and their families who will benefit from the funds raised in his name.

A Legacy of Love and Strength

Andy Grier was a man who brought people together in life, and thanks to his family’s efforts, he continues to do so in memory. Through football matches, challenges, and community-driven initiatives, his loved ones are making a real difference in the fight against brain tumours.

To support Yorkshire’s Brain Tumour Charity and the work being done in Andy’s name, visit: www.yorksbtc.org.uk and consider making a donation. Every contribution helps keep Andy’s spirit alive while supporting vital research and patient care.

If you or a loved one has been affected by a brain tumour and need support, reach out to Yorkshire’s Brain Tumour Charity for guidance, resources, and community support.