Footballers honour Aston Soulsby’s memory with tournament
Young footballers from across the Black Country came together for a charity tournament held in memory of a 12-year-old boy who died after being hit by a bus.
Teams from the Walsall and Bilston Leagues competed in the tournament in West Bromwich in honour of tragic Aston Soulsby.
Football-mad Aston was crossing Crankhall Lane in Wednesbury in November last year when he was struck by the single-decker bus.
The Aston Villa plan played for Bustleholme Lions, managed by his uncle Mark Soulsby, who organised the tournament, featuring under-13 teams who Aston played against.
A plaque was also unveiled at Charlemont playing fields, where Bustleholme play their home games, an emotional moment for Aston's parents John and Alison.
The competition was won by Mahal FC and the event looks likely to become a regular fixture.
Mr Soulsby, 54, said: "Everyone got into the true spirit of it. There were no arguments on the pitch. They all knew what they were there for.
"I have had a lot of feedback from managers who said 'same place, same time next year' so I'm hoping to do it next year and do it bigger."
More than £500 was raised for the Edward's Trust, which supports bereaved families.
Mr Soulsby said it has been a difficult few months for the family.
He said: "It's still emotional from time to time. I don't think you can get over it.
"My brother and Alison are coping but they still have their moments. They have built a memorial in their back garden.
"He was happy go lucky and would do crafty things on the pitch."
