A charitable trust set up in memory of a much-loved Beccles footballer has hit the ground running with a flood of donations.

Family and friends came together to raise money and celebrate the life of Aiden Lowe at the Bungay Festival of Running.

Held on Sunday, more than 25 people ran the 10k race in his honour.

Aiden was killed in a car crash on the A143 at Gillingham in September last year.

The Aiden’s Gift charitable trust has been set up to continue the legacy of the 23-year-old and will help fund sporting activities for children affected by illness or disability through support for East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH).

Aiden was a member of Beccles Caxton FC, as well as previously playing for Bungay Town and Kirkley football clubs.

Matt Lowe, Aiden’s brother, said: “This is our first event and all the money has been raised on word of mouth alone from the people who knew Aiden.”

The trust has smashed its £1,000 target with £2,385 already donated at the time of writing.

Matt said: “It’s been brilliant; within 24-hours we hit our goal.

“Aiden was such a caring character – this just goes to show he touched so many lives.”

The 26-year-old also spoke of the “touching” messages which have been left by those donating.

He said: “It’s a nice thing to be able to show our parents and show them how well thought of he was.

“All the money that has been coming in just reiterates that.”

Matt explained EACH was chosen as the ideal beneficiary of the trust for two reasons.

He said: “Aiden has always been good with children – playing football you have to deal with the youth teams and younger players.

“But when our niece was born he really came into his own.

“He would take her for days out – the bond those two had was amazing.

“And of course as it’s for Aiden it’s only right we kept it sport-orientated.”

Mr Lowe added: “Thank you so much to all the people who have donated. I want to thank everyone individually but there are so many names.”

A memorial football match and family day will be held on Sunday, May 6, at Bungay Football Club, to continue raising money in Aiden’s memory.

If you wish to make a donation to Aiden’s Gift, visit: www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/aidens-gift