THE mother of a football-loving teenager who died from a brain tumour ten years ago has praised a memorial event which has raised thousands of pounds for charity.

Alison Tosh, of Sible Hedingham, is extremely thankful to everyone who took part in the Hedinghams United FC Smile of Arran Trust Family Funday on June 2.

The event was put on in memory of Arran Tosh who died in 2014, aged just 13.

The Smile of Arran Trust was set up to honour his memory and raise money to help other youngsters with brain tumours.

Loved - a great photo of teenager Arron ToshLoved - teenager Arron Tosh (Image: Alison Tosh)

Talented - an image of Arran Tosh playing footballTalented - Arran Tosh playing football (Image: Alison Tosh)

Supporting - a crowd at the charity eventSupporting - a crowd at the charity event (Image: Public)

The day consisted of a friendly football match between Arran’s former Hedinghams United youth team and the former Halstead Town youth team.

There was also live music, a licensed bar, games, stalls and food.

The memorial match, which was held to mark the tenth anniversary of Arran’s death, has raised £3,751.

It will go to the charity Young Lives vs Cancer and the organisation will give out ‘Arran grants’ to children with brain tumours or brain cancer.

Alison said: “A huge tribute was paid to Arran at the football fundraiser. 

Remebering - just before the match kicked offRemembering - the players ahead of the kick-off (Image: Public)

Proud - left to right Susie Brown from the social committee, Alison Tosh, and another person walking onto the pitchProud - Alison Tosh, centre, walking on to the pitch ahead of the match (Image: Public)

Games - a group of attendees trying to push a fire engineShow of strength - supporters attempting to push a fire engine (Image: Public)

“The amount of effort that was put in to make it a very special day just shows the love they all felt for Arran and how much they miss him.

“Although ten years have gone by since Arran passed, I still expected to see the 13-year-old boys from the Hedingham team come on to the pitch, so I was shocked to see how grown up they were.

“Both teams played well but it was extra special that Hedingham won.

“You could feel the community spirit on the day and it was lovely to see people that I haven't seen for years. 

"We would like to say a huge thank you to Garry, Kim, the social committee and everyone who helped to organise the event.

“You did Arran proud and gave the charity a huge boost.”

Football club chairman Steve Parsons said: "For once the weather was on our side, as Hedinghams United hosted its family fun day alongside the 10-year anniversary of the sad passing of Arran Tosh.

“Monies raised on the day are being shared between Hedinghams United and the Smile of Arran trust.

“So a big thank you to everyone who attended, we really appreciate everyone’s contributions.

“A massive thank you also to our social committee, led by Lucy Jones, for putting on a fantastic day for everyone to enjoy.”