Worksop youth footballers honour Widnes FC player who died suddenly, aged 11

Youth players aged 6 to 13 from Laughton FC put in the laps raising money for the family of Alfie Humphreys - who died suddenly in February.

The youngster - who played for Cheshire grassroots team Widnes FC - was described as having “a heart of gold” by mum Nicola Whitfield.

Speaking about “football mad” Alfie, mum Nicola, 35, told Liverpool Echo: “He was such a lovely boy.”

She added: “He would have done anything for anyone, especially me.

"He'd have done anything for me, absolutely anything. He was my best friend."

Worksop nurse Raeanne Foster, whose son Harry plays for Laughton FC, described how she “sobbed for days” after hearing the news and felt compelled to show her support.

The mum-of-two asked other young players - along with her son - to run 100 laps in their gardens in honour of Alfie and to raise money for his heartbroken family.

She said: “When Harry heard about it he was so sad - he’s getting a bit older now so I think it hit home a bit.

“But I’m really pleased because a lot of the older players took part as well - it’s quite unusual for 13-year-olds to do something like this.

“When I read about what happened I was so shocked and wanted to do something for his family at club level.”

Raeanne has recorded a video of Worksop youngsters doing their laps for Alfie.

You can make a donation to Alfie’s family at https://www.gofundme.com/f/in-memory-of-alfie-humphreys.

In these confusing and worrying times, local journalism is more vital than ever. Thanks to everyone who helps us ask the questions that matter by taking out a subscription or buying a paper. We stand together. Nancy Fielder, editor.