A CHARITY football match has raised more than £2,000 in memory of a father who died from cancer.

Mick Giles, from Selby, died at the age of 43 in December 2014 following a battle with advanced kidney cancer.

He was a former player with Kartiers FC, and Ian Jennings - who played for and managed the team - was among those who helped organise last weekend’s charity match.

He said the game had taken its toll on those who had not played for some time, but all were glad to have been involved.

“Despite convincing myself that I was only going to have a five minute run-out, I ended up playing a lot more due to a number of late call offs. But I am glad I did, I am also grateful and thankful that I can.

“I am humbled that to this day that all I have to do is make a phone call or send a text and people will put themselves out, travel great distances, even from overseas over the years, simply to put on the Kartiers shirt once again to remember one of our own and to help raise money for charity. It was a special little football club who punched above its weight for years. Those lads that ran around that huge pitch are special people.”

So far, the event has raised more than £2,200 for Macmillan Cancer Support in memory of Mick.

He said: “I really can’t thank people enough for their generosity and help in making this happen. It was lovely to see so many old faces at the game as well as family and friends and we as a club will never forget another of our favourite sons, Dave ‘Willy’ Williams, whose father Dave was in attendance. ‘Willy’ and ‘Big’ Mick were teammates and friends and I always smile when I think of the pair of them and always will.”

Mr Jennings said the highlight was playing alongside Mick’s son Freddie, who came on towards the end and scored a hat trick.

He said: “His finishing reminded me so much of his father despite Freddie being predominantly right footed whereas Michael was very much left footed. I hope Freddie continues to play, I just wish I was still coaching, as I would have him signed on in no time.”

Mr Jennings thanked Selby Town FC for hosting the match, all those who sold and bought raffle tickets, and everyone who supported the match.

Donations are still open at justgiving.com/fundraising/bigmick