A FOOTBALL tournament in memory of a long-standing servant at Chirk AAAs football club took place on Sunday.

The first ever Tony Ellis Memorial Trophy football tournament was played out with 12 teams taking part.

The day was held in memory of Mr Ellis, who was associated with Chirk Youth Football Club for many years.

Organiser Alistair Williams put the idea for the event forward to raise funds for Chirk Youth FC while raising funds for the youth teams and charities selected by Mr Ellis’ family.

Alistair said: “We wanted to do an end of season game initially, but I had the idea to make it a tournament, which turned into a funday type of event.

“I initially asked the AAAs about the availability of the grounds for a tournament and once they said yes, I began researching the history of the club in more depth.

“After doing that I was able to get in touch with a lot of ex-players, current players, coaches past and present to take part and we had 12 teams take part.

“We had a good level of support from businesses with gifts for the raffle and sponsorships.”

The event offered more than just the football tournament, with an assault course for children and hot food and refreshments on sale.

Alistair said he felt it was only right to name the tournament in memory of former coach Mr Ellis.

He said: “Tony passed away a few years ago after being involved with the club for many years.

“He began helping his uncle who coached Chirk Youth under-16s years ago before taking on his own team which he coached from the age of five, right through until they reached the age of 16.

“He coached me when I played for Chirk Youth, and helped me massively when I began coaching my own team.

“For me, he really was Mr Chirk Youth - he was extremely selfless and dedicated and gave a huge amount of time to the club.”

The organiser thanked everyone who helped to make the event go ahead.

He said: “Thanks to everyone for attending and to Debbie Daniel and the fundraising team - without them it wouldn’t have happened.

“Thanks to everyone who donated raffle prizes and to Jon Anders-Rowlands who made the programmes and helped with the running of the day.”