GO AD-FREE. Get 2 Months Digital Subscription for ONLY £1! Use code 2FOR1
GET STARTEDMore on KentOnline
GO AD-FREE. Get 2 Months Digital Subscription for ONLY £1! Use code 2FOR1
GET STARTEDMore on KentOnline
A football match will be held in memory of a young man who died in a motorway crash.
Tributes to 22-year-old Reece Watson, from Ringlestone, poured in after the collision on the M26 near Wrotham, in October 2020.
The Lenham Wanderers FC Under-15s manager was described by his mum as "the most amazing, loving, funny, caring and kind person you could ever have in your life".
David Boaler, 42, from Sutton Valence, was travelling in the same van as Reece, both as passengers, when it collided with a lorry. He also died at the scene.
Tomorrow evening, a match will be played at the Gallagher Stadium to raise money for a memorial to Mr Watson at the William Pitt Field, where Lenham FC play.
Two teams, comprised of friends and relatives of the former Swadelands pupil, will play against each other in the colours of West Ham United FC, Mr Watson's favourite team.
The former postman's younger brothers will appear as mascots before the match begins, Matthew Murray, his best friend, said.
Mr Murray said: "Reece loved his football and this came up as an idea as soon as it all happened but we said we would do it in the summer because of the pandemic.
"The funeral was limited numbers and we didn't have a wake, so it's nice to do it."
He added that they were considering a plaque or a bench for a memorial and the remaining money raised would go towards the air ambulance, which attended the scene of the crash.
There will also be a raffle with prizes donated by businesses.
The match has been organised by Mr Watson's mum and step-dad, as well as others.
Mr Watson was living with his partner Emily Butler before his death.
Paying tribute to her partner, Ms Butler said: "He filled my life with such love and laughter, and I will forever be thankful for that.
"He knew exactly what to say to me when I needed him, which was a very special thing.
"He was there for me in the good times and in the bad, without any hesitation."
The event starts at 6pm and tickets can be purchased by clicking here.
