ALMOST £7,000 has been raised following the death of a popular Chirk footballer.

Jason Lee Williams, who played for Chirk Town FC, died suddenly last week.

His death prompted a huge response on social media, with people from Chirk and neighbouring villages and towns paying tribute.

As a mark of respect, his team postponed their weekend fixture and retired his number five shirt for the remainder of the season.

The club also set up an online fundraiser which has raised a total of £6,970 in a week.

Club secretary, Ben Davies, gave thanks on the club’s behalf to those who have donated.

He said: “Everyone at Chirk Town FC would like to give their thanks to everybody that has taken the time to donate to the fund for Jason.

“It shows the fantastic spirit of the people at the club and in the town.”

Chirk Town’s fixture on Saturday against Caerwys will go ahead.

After the 28-year-old’s death, Chirk Town FC posted of Facebook: “With little over six months since the club was born, never did we think we would have to post something like this.

“As most are aware, we lost our number five Jason Williams yesterday morning.

“Jason was a fantastic player, but much more importantly, a fantastic friend to us all, and the changing rooms won’t be the same again.”

An inquest has been opened into Jason’s death.

At the hearing held in Ruthin on Monday, senior coroner John Gittins, said Jason’s death was reported to him by North Wales Police as a death in the community. The inquest has been adjourned and will resume in the early 2020.