A memorial football match and family fun day held in honour of beloved Beccles sportsman Aiden Lowe has celebrated its inaugural year.

The event, which took place on Sunday at The Maltings Pavilion in Ditchingham, raised £2,750 for Aiden’s Gift – a charitable trust set up in memory of the footballer.

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

The success of the day means nearly £6,000 has now been raised for the trust – which will help children suffering from ill health and disabilities by supporting East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices.

Matt Lowe, Aiden’s brother, said: “We couldn’t have asked for a better day.

“From the off it was brilliant, there were a lot of families and small children enjoying the bouncy castle – exactly what we wanted.

“The turnout was amazing, it was packed out.”

The day was centred on a football match between Aiden’s former side Bungay Town FC and Aiden’s All-stars – a team of friends, family and past teammates.

There was minute’s silence before the game and when the 90 minutes came to an end it was the All-stars who had triumphed, winning 6 – 3 and providing a thrilling spectacle for the large crowd.

Matt said: “There was a really nice atmosphere to the game, it was all about enjoying the day.

“A lot of the guys we hadn’t seen in a while so it was good to catch up.”

Aiden’s parents Tracy and David Lowe presented a trophy to the winning team as well as match balls to the man of the match for each side.

This is the second fundraiser in aid of the trust with more than 25 people previously completing the 10K race at the Bungay Festival of Running.

Matt said: “We are looking to keep the football game going every year. The next event could be a long distance cycle challenge – some sort of physical challenge as Aiden was an athlete.”

He added: “It has been nearly eight months since I lost my brother and a massive hole was left in the Lowe family.

“Through Aiden’s Gift we hope to continue my brother’s legacy of happiness and generosity towards the wellbeing of others.”

To donate to Aiden’s Gift visit www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/aidens-gift