In memory of Steve (From York Press)

Charity football match in memory of Steve Myers

7:58am Saturday 14th July 2012 in Sport By Jennifer Bell, jennifer.bell@thepress.co.uk

THE widow of a popular and talented footballer has thanked York City manager Gary Mills for helping to organise a charity match to raise money for others suffering from the condition that claimed his life.

York City played Huntington Rovers last night in memory of Rovers’ ex-goalkeeper Steve Myers who died last August, aged 29, only days after being diagnosed with a brain tumour, leaving behind widow, Vicki, and their baby, Toby.

Following Steve’s death, Vicki, of Huntington, set up the Steve Myers Safe Hands charity to donate funds towards brain tumour research and Leeds General Infirmary’s Ward 21, where her husband was treated.

As part of her fundraising she wanted to mark the anniversary of her husband’s death, and came up with the idea of the charity match involving Steve’s former teammates and York City.

Vicki hopes last night’s pre-season friendly at Huntington Sports Club will have raised about £5,000.

Toby, now 16 months old, proudly wore a shirt of Leeds United – his father’s favourite team – as the official mascot for the event.

Vick described Steve as a devoted husband and father.

“He was just so outgoing and popular – and absolutely loved sport. He was a fantastic man all round. When he found out he was not going to live he never said ‘why me?’. He just got on with making sure the rest of us were okay. That is what he was like. A fantastic gentleman all round.”

Vicki said: “Gary Mills has been fantastic for arranging this and lending their support and getting all the players down. Local businesses have also been great in donating some fantastic prizes.”

Steve’s funeral was attended by about 400 people, with £2,000 raised.

To contribute visit www.justgiving.com/stevemyerssafehands.