A CHARITY football match dedicated to the memory of two former players raised more than £2,500 for Little Havens children’s hospice.

More than 200 people turned up to see the Catholic United Old Boys take on the Southend United Legends, including former manager Steve Tilson.

Essex comedian Terry Alderton also took part.

The match was held in memory of twin brothers Michael and John Healy, from Rayleigh and was organised by Louise Healy, 42 who now lives in Colchester, and Sinclair Walton, 50 from Hockley.

Michael and John, who died in 2005 and 2008, aged 38 and 42 respectively, were Miss Healy’s older brothers and Mr Walton played football with Michael for many years.

Miss Healy said: “We decided to hold the match now as it has been ten years since Michael died and seven years since John died.

“Therefore we felt that a memorial football match and family fun day would be a great event.

“Our family grew up in Rayleigh and Michael and John were very well known twin boys and they made a huge impact on everyone they met.

“We were so pleased with the amount raised at the match. The day itself was fantastic.

“We were very lucky the sun shone, and everyone had a great day.

“It was very emotional when the family stood in the centre circle for a minute’s silence with all the players, but a wonderful moment that will stay with us forever.

“It just so happened the Red Arrows were flying through Essex on the day, and this happened seconds after the minute’s silence.”

Claire Wilson, community fundraiser at Little Havens Hospice in Thundersley, said: “What a special way for all of Michael and John’s family and friends to come together and remember them.

“At Little Havens we help by controlling pain and medication, offering respite and caring for children at the end of their lives. All of this care is free of charge and that simply wouldn’t be possible without people like Louise Sinclair and everybody else whowas involved in or supported the match.”

The event raised a total of £2,569.19 for Little Havens Hospice which cares for seriously ill babies, children and teenagers from across Essex.

The match took place at Selex Sports and Leisure Club on Gardiners Way, Basildon, and also included a family fun day with bouncy castles, a barbecue, raffle, auction, ice cream and a penalty shoot-out.