A charity night is being held after a talented footballer died during a Sunday league match.   

Friends of Paul Leach have organised the fundraising event for next month. 

Mr Leach, 23, collapsed and died on November 13, only ten minutes into a match for Preston Farm Motors at Smiths Dock Park in Normanby, Teesside. 

Although a full inquest into the cause of his death has not been held, his symptoms have been likened to that of sudden adult syndrome, and all funds will be donated to the Cardiac Risk in the Young group, which raises awareness into the condition. 

The event is being backed by Mr Leach's fiancée, Emma Ferrier, his parents, Malcolm and Jan and brothers, Andy and Chris. 

It is being organised by Dean Talukder and former manager Craig Blyth.  Mr Talukder, 24, from Acklam, Middlesbrough, was playing in the match on the day Mr Leach, from Marton Manor, Middlesbrough, collapsed. 

He said: "Paul was respected by everybody.  He was a smashing lad.  I have seen people collapsed before and was expecting him to go to hospital and be okay.  When we were told he died, it was the worst feeling I have ever had.  It was a terrible day and I miss him a lot." 

Mr Blyth, 34, from Berwick Hills, a former manage of Beads football team, said: "Paul was a great character. 

"Everyone in the community and in the football community was devastated."

Signed Premiership football shirts and football memorabilia will be among the goods auctioned on the night.  Organisers are also appealing for raffle and auction donations. 

The night will be in the Beechwood and Easterside Clulb, on Wednesday, February, 15, and will include live band and disco.  Tickets are £2.50, available from the club on (01642) 311304.