A CHARITY football match in memory of Bromsgrove student Tom Jones has been described as a 'fitting and respectful tribute to one of our own' by Sporting chairman Mike Burke.

More than 1,600 people turned out to watch Sporting beat the Royal Air Force Football Association 2-1, raising £7,000 for former player Tom's family.

Speaking after the match, manager Brendan Kelly said: "The whole evening was planned around young Tom and how well he served this club for the years he was year so I thought it was important for his pals to be involved."

He added: "It was a very fitting tribute and it proves how popular the lad was, how well liked he was - not just him but his family as well.

"It was a massive turn-out and I think at such a tragic time for Tom and his family, this is just a small gesture of a tribute that we've put forward but hopefully it softens the blow.

"It'll never heal the pain that they must be going through but hopefully they can take some hope from that."

Club chairman Mike Burke added: "I want to personally thank all the volunteers, staff and directors for all their time and hard work, that will be still on going today for the ground’s big clear up, that as always, they just take in their stride.

“All of this resulted in a fitting and respectful tribute to one of our own, Thomas Jones.

“Thanks also to Kevin Barry and his RAF team, who came from all around the country, giving up their time. It really gave us a match that was a class above the usual friendly.

“And of course, what a credit to the club Brendan, Andy and the team are; on such an emotional evening to give us, what I think, is one of the best friendlies we’ll ever see.

“And what about the people of Bromsgrove? Turning up, some for the first time to the Victoria Ground. So many, and so generous, all with thoughts of Tom and support for his family.

“On a personal note, I want to say how humbled I felt in meeting Tom’s parents, Vicki and Ian.

“So much love, so much strength – I don’t believe I could ever be as brave as they are.

“My thoughts will always be with them.”

18-year-old Tom went missing on a night out in Worcester last month, prompting a major search which ended with his body being found in the River Severn.

The student’s death is currently being treated as unexplained, and an inquest into his death opened on Wednesday, October 3.