Football tribute to tragic Tom
Hundreds of supporters turned out for a charity match in memory of a talented young footballer who died suddenly on his 13th birthday.
Thomas Smith, who had been suffering from meningitis, died during a trip to Wales in May last year leaving his family and friends devastated.
His former football coach Tony Hardwick at Chasetown Scholars organised the match which took place on Saturday to raise money for a fund set up in Thomas's name as part of charity Meningitis Now.
Almost 700 people packed the grounds to watch the Under-14s take on their counterparts at Walsall FC at the Scholars Ground in Church Street, Chasetown.
His parents Andy and Emma, from Hednesford, were among those in the crowd and a minute's applause in honour of Aston Villa fan Thomas was held before kick-off.
At the end of the match, which Chasetown won 6-2, the couple were presented with a framed shirt which had been worn by Thomas when he played for the club.
Mr Smith said the match was a fitting tribute to his son, who was nicknamed 'Ronnie' after Cristiano Ronaldo for his skills on the pitch.
"He was an exceptional footballer and it's nice to have that recognised. It was very touching to see how many people came out for the match and to support the charity for Tom," he said.
Mr Hardwick said around £3,000 had been raised for the charity. There are hopes that the match could become an annual event in memory of Thomas. Chasetown FC is also to name a trophy after the 13-year-old, which will be presented annually.
