A FOOTBALL match held in memory of a former Ilkley Town player who tragically died has raised £1,200 for charity.

Ilkley Town and Knaresborough Celtic have long been fierce competitors on the junior soccer scene, but the two teams placed their rivalry to one side in a bid to raise cash for charities.

The death, in 2020, of Ilkley player Calum Tong, 21, was a key factor in bringing his former teammates back together for the match at the MPM Stadium, Ben Rhydding.

A JustGiving page, justgiving.com/fundraising/paul-ellis26, has been set up for the UK Sepsis Trust in memory of Calum.

Ilkley manager Paul Ellis said: “All the players wanted to turn out for one more game and raise funds for good causes.

“We've always had tough games with Knaresborough. However, we’ve also been great friends off the pitch.

“These are tough times for everyone so it’s good to help charities out. A friendly football match seemed the right thing to do.”

Calum’s parents and sister were immensely touched by the generosity shown by so many people.

Money raised on the day will also be shared with two charities close to the heart of the Knaresborough team.

 

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