Family and friends of Tom Fleetwood, who died suddenly last year, raised nearly £17,000 in his memory through a football tournament and funday on Sunday 5th August 2012.

Elise Fleetwood, his wife, organised the huge event, which more than 1,000 people attended at Rayleigh Town Sports Club. Tom was 28 when he died suddenly after returning from a game of squash last year and CRY has helped Elise since Tom passed away with advice and support. This was a way to give something back and do something positive in such a difficult and sad time.

Elise said: “The day was so incredible and emotional. To see that many people turn out to celebrate Tom’s life was just amazing. Tom spent eight years playing for Rayleigh Boy’s Football Club.”

“It’s been overwhelming but there’s been a constant flood of offers of raffle prizes, people giving time and doing so much for us.”

It was an idea dreamt up in the pub and resulted in 30 teams turning out and offering wonderful support for the event. There were stalls, a DJ, bouncy castle, pamper treatments, a raffle and an auction including Chelsea captain John Terry’s signed boots worn in the 2006 World Cup.

It was a truly brilliant day and to date the event has raised a wonderful £16,992.00 for the charity.