FRIENDS and family paid tribute to two much-loved figures of the local sports scene at an inaugural charity event last weekend.

Hundreds gathered for a day of family fun and football tournaments in memory of Nick Dadds and Phil Cockcroft at Picket Twenty Sports Ground on Sunday.

Nick, who died in 2015, was a well-known footballer for Andover New Street, while pub landlord Phil was involved with various local football, rugby, darts, netball and pool leagues prior to his passing in March.

Sunday’s charity day began with a six-aside football tournament, followed by an 11-a-side meeting between the Phil Cockroft XI and the Nick Dadds XI.

There was also a raffle featuring 50 prizes, plus face painting and an inflatable football darts games for the children. Yum Yum food truck provided food on the day, while staff from the George Inn – where Phil was landlord – set up a beer marquee for refreshments.

Over £1,500 was raised in total, to be split between suicide prevention charity Papyrus and the Countess of Brecknock Hospice.

Special guests Fred Abraham, a Chelsea pensioner, and ex-veteran Jordan Wylie were in attendance to present trophies to the winners of the football matches.

Bish Bash Bosh won the 6-aside tournament, while the Phil Cockcroft XI came out on top in the 11-aside game.

Jordan also gave a speech on mental health awareness during the day.

Speaking after the event, he said: “It was an honour to be asked to give a speech about mental health and suicide prevention at the charity fun day last weekend. The event was very well organised and there was a great turnout from the Andover community.”

“Mental health continues to be a huge challenge in a world that is changing all the time. We must do everything we can to break down the stigmas attached to depression, anxiety, and other issues such as post-traumatic stress, and encourage people to speak out before it’s too late.”

Plans are already in place to repeat the event next year.

Lee Cogan, who alongside Josh Abraham organised the event, said: “Thanks to everyone for coming down, making it such a great day and remembering two great blokes.

“Hopefully next year will be even bigger and better.”