A CHARITY football match has raised more than £1,000 in memory of a popular teenager who died in a car crash.

Gary Pitchford, of Speedwell Road, Colchester, died aged 17 after the car he was a passenger in crashed into a tree in May 2009.

He was a keen footballer, playing in midfield for FC Old Heath, and his family decided to hold a memorial match ten years on from his death to support the Essex Air Ambulance.

Maldon and Burnham Standard:

The event at Rowhedge Football Club saw two teams - Gary’s closest friends and a squad put together by Gary’s brother, Wayne - battle it out.

The day raised £1,300 for the Essex and Herts Air Ambulance.

Wayne’s wife Caroline said: “What a perfect day it was, couldn’t have asked for better weather for a great turn out from everyone.

"It was fantastic seeing all of Wayne’s and Gary’s friends come together for a special day.”