A charity football tournament is being held in honour of a young man who died after a battle with his mental health.

The Connor Mackay Cup was set up in July 2021, two years after the 22-year-old, who lived in Sheerness, passed away.

It was started by his brothers Finn and James Tumber and cousin Adam Read and has become an annual event.

Tournaments have taken place at the Appleyard in Sittingbourne, formerly known as UK Paper, and at Sheppey United’s home ground Holm Park, where it will return this year on Sunday, July 20.

The events have raised £14,750, but other fundraising from the brothers has brought the total up £17,500, which has gone to the Mental Health Foundation.

This year, there are around 80 people set to lace up their boots to play, with eight men's teams playing in the seven-a-side tournaments and a ladies' game as well. There will also be a DJ, plus a raffle stall.

It runs from 1pm to 5pm.

To view the fundraiser click here

Finn, who lives in Sittingbourne, said the tournaments were a way to remember Connor who “loved to play football” and was a “huge Barcelona fan”.

The 23-year-old added: “Connor was incredible with the absolute world at his feet. He was kind, intelligent and talented and when he died it was such a loss to us all.

“Our lives will never be the same again so it was important for us as a family that we do all we can to make sure anyone else struggling with their mental health gets the support they need so that no one ever has to go through what Connor did.

“We chose to remember Connor and keep his memory alive by hosting an annual charity football tournament as he loved watching football, playing six-a-side and having a kickabout.

“With the tournaments, we have tried to build up a community as well with a lot of players returning each year and we want to encourage all the lads who play to speak out about mental health as men usually don’t.”

For confidential support on an emotional issue, call Samaritans on 116 123 at any time.