The family of a young footballer, who died suddenly from a heart defect, have set-up a fund in his memory.

Tim Spooner collapsed in the changing rooms after suffering chest pains during a six-a-side game at Bliswoth and was taken to hospital, but doctors could not save him. 

Now the 21-year-old's family are urging young people across the country to be scanned for undiagnosed heart conditions and have launched a fund-raising drive to raise cash for CRY (Cardiac Risk in the Young). 

His father, John Spooner, of West Brook in Bliswoth, said: "We want some god to come out of what happened to Tim.

"He was very fit and played three or four times a week; there was no sign of any problems."

Tim's brother, Simon Spooner, 34, of Pond Bank in he village, near Towcester, added: "We want to make people aware of how common it is and how easily your life can be changed from really no symptoms to losing someone. 

"Between 16 and 32 people aged under 35 die from heart-related problems in the UK every week." 

Paying tribute to his son, John Spooner said: "He lived for his girlfriend, Natalie, and football. 

"If you needed anything, he would be there.  He was a caring person."

The former Campion School pupil died after playing football before the FA Cup final on May 17. 

More than 600 people paid their respects at a funeral service held in the village on Friday. 

The Chelsea fanatic was buried in his favourite team's kit, with a flag draped over the coffin. 

He was laid to rest with his mother Kathleen - who died from cancer in 2002 - in the graveyard of St John's Church. 

The family hopes to get a memorial plaque put up at the home of Chelsea, Stamford Bridge. 

Tim worked as a civil engineer for a Bliswoth firm after studying at Northampton College. 

He had broken into Blisworth FC's first team last season, after playing in the club's reserve side during the previous year. 

Tim's older brother, Jonny, 23, has also played for the club. 

First team manager Dave Faulkner said: "Tim was one of the most genuine young men I have ever met.  He was a lovely young lad."

The club will stage a memorial football match on Saturday, June 28, at 2.30pm, where Blisworth's footballers will take on Bugbrooke Rugby Club. 

There will also be a barbecue, a disco and a raffle. 

Donations to the Time Spooner Memorial Fund can be made by visiting www.c-r-y.org.uk