A FOOTBALL match in aid of a children’s heart charity and a memorial fund set up in memory of Tom Parsons, who died while on holiday in Greece last year, has raised £6,000.

The Perm Cup, which has raised thousands of pounds over the last 10 years, took place in Old Malton on December 27 and was followed by an auction, raffle and entertainment at the Royal Oak in Malton.

This year the match supported the Children’s Heart Surgery Fund (CHSF), which is currently on a fundraising drive to raise £700,000 for a new state-of-the-art children’s ward at Leeds General Infirmary, and the Tom Parsons Memorial Fund, which is aiming to buy defibrillators.

Team captain James Milson, who organises the football match with friend Paul Holder, known as Perm, said:”A big thank you to all that helped with the Perm Cup charity day. We had 66 lads playing football, loads of spectators and helpers alike.

“I would like to thank all the people and local business for their generosity, without this the day wouldn’t take place. We have raised £6,000, which takes the total. Thanks to everyone who helped to make the day possible especially my wife Emma and the Royal Oak staff.” Tom Parsons, from West Heslerton, was on holiday with friends on the Greek island of Zante, when he died last August, aged 22. His parents, Nick and Sue, have set up the fund to provide two defibrillators.