DOZENS of players came together for a tournament in Flintshire in memory of a "special" figure in amateur football in the area

Shaun Jones was a hugely popular and well-known figure among local football circuits.

The 47-year-old, a dad of two, tragically died last October from a heart condition.

He was from Penyffordd and was a huge Wrexham AFC - following the club home and away. Tributes poured in following his death, with Shaun being described as a "proper football man".

The Leader: Shaun Jones with his daughters Emily (left) and Olivia (right)Shaun Jones with his daughters Emily (left) and Olivia (right) (Image: Family photo)

Shaun played for a number of teams across Wrexham and Flintshire before taking up coaching roles.

And on Saturday (July 29), Penyffordd FC held a tournament in memory of him.

A testament to Shaun's character and popularity was that 16 teams signed up to play in the 5-a-side competition.

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Gareth Higgins, who organised the event alongside Marcus Davies, said: "It was an extremely proud day with mixed emotions as Shaun was very special to everybody at the club.

"We felt that it was only right to honour him by holding this event due to his love of football and the many years that he passionately played for, managed and supported Penyffordd and Penyffordd Lions. We can’t thank the participants, volunteers and local businesses enough for their support on the day, the event wouldn’t have been possible without their help."

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The event raised £1,375 for Penyffordd FC, and £500 will be donated to the Aortic Dissection Awareness charity.

Shaun's brother, Kevin, said: "It's humbling that they've done this in Shaun's name. It's absolutely fantastic to see how many people turned up for it. 

"Shaun's well missed by everybody and that's shown by the fact so many lads took part in the day. The Penyffordd community is brilliant and always comes together when tragedies like Shaun's death happen.

"A big thank you to Gareth and Marcus for organising the day."