A NINE-YEAR-OLD boy is hoping to run annual events to raise money for local charities in memory of his father.
Recently a family fun day and football tournament which included a bouncy castle, face painting and hot food took place in memory of Josh's dad Ryan Morrison, who died in August following a short battle with cancer, aged just 34.
The £1160.65 raised from the Ryan Morrison Cup 2023 will go towards Josh's chosen charity Hope for Tomorrow, based in Stonehouse.
He hopes to run other types of events in the years to follow.
"We want to thank everyone who supported our fundraiser in memory of Ryan Morrison," said Sonia Brinkworth, Great Oldbury Youth Chair and Secretary.
"Josh, who plays for Great Oldbury Youth, and his mum Kylie will always have our support and they both did Ryan proud.
"Josh is passionate about football, an important member of our team, has got a lovely friendship with many and is our top goalscorer.
"We know your dad will always be looking down, cheering you on."
As well as Great Oldbury Youth, Oaksey FC, Cam Everside YFC, Charfield Junior Football Club, Minchinhampton Football Club and King's Stanley Dragons Youth Football Club also took part.
"It was a lovely atmosphere and all of our staff enjoyed a good laugh and chat with the other teams' coaches between our mini tournament games," said Mrs Brinkworth.
"A huge you to friends and family and many local businesses that donated raffle prizes for us to raise all important funds for our chosen charity this year."
Minchinhampton Raiders won the under 9 tournament and King Stanley Dragons the under 11 with both teams being awarded the Ryan Morrison Cup 2023.
"Look after the very first Ryan Morrison trophies, they are yours to keep," said Mrs Brinkworth.
The fundraiser also counted on support from an array of businesses, including Forest Green Rovers, Zaika, The Whitminster Inn and Stroud Brewery.
"Our great Oldbury players 'Pumas and Jaguars' played well as a split team and we hope you all enjoyed the day as much as we did," said Mrs Brinkworth.
"Thank you for always trying your best and having a great attitude on and off the pitch.
"And to the parents that volunteered with running the tea tent, raffle tent, glitter tent, running the line and refereeing games, thank you."
Great Oldbury Youth hopes to run an annual tournament giving teams the chance to play for the Ryan Morrison Cup.
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