A Colne FC “legend” would have been left humbled by the hundreds of people who turned out to celebrate his life, friends have said.
Last Sunday, a charity football match was held in memory of Kelvin Metcalfe (66), who died following a heart attack last month.
Taking place at the XLCR Stadium, the event saw around 400 people making a donation to the former Colne FC and Foulridge Minors coach’s favourite charity, Donna’s Dream House. Over £1,000 was raised from the match, which included a raffle, refreshments and a silent auction.
One organiser Liam Blades (25) said that everybody behind the match has been left delighted with its success — even if it was a “cold, wet, Sunday afternoon”.
He added: “I think Kelvin would have been humbled by it all. The match showed just how well appreciated he was.
“It really couldn’t have gone any better — everything about it was fantastic. We are thinking of making it an annual thing, and getting a Kelvin Metcalfe Memorial Trophy, but it is early days yet.”
The match, which fittingly took place on the birthday of Kelvin’s wife, Yvonne, saw both of Kelvin’s former local teams go head-to-head. Colne FC’s team was coached by Kelvin’s eldest son Stuart, while the Foulridge Minors Team was coached by his youngest son Ben. Colne FC was crowned winner at the end of the 90-minute game, which was refereed by Kelvin’s friend, Coun. Joe Cooney. Among the many guests was “Colne Cyclone” Steven Burke, who took to Twitter to show his support.
He said: “Had a nice time today at Colne Football Stadium watching my Foulridge Minors coach, Kelvin Metcalfe’s memorial game.”
Entertainment was provided after the match by Kelvin’s favourite comedian Mr Fizz-Eek. All of his fee was also donated to charity.