FRIENDS of a Warminster teenager who tragically died following a brain injury have organised a charity football tournament in his memory.

Former Kingdown School pupil Niall Stewart died of brain damage in 2012, prompting close friend Kieron Edwards, 23, to set up a tournament in his memory.

A keen and talented footballer, Niall had been captain of Heytesbury Football Club, as well as playing with youth teams at Warminster United and Highbury.

Having grown up together at Highbury Park, Kieron and Niall played football together at Heytesbury and Warminster United where they won trophies for three seasons in a row.

Mr Edwards said: "Hosting a football tournament in Niall's memory to help other families rebuild their lives after brain injury feels like a fitting tribute.

"We thought of the idea soon after Niall's death and the match quickly became an annual tradition where we can all come together and remember the good times we had with Niall both on and off the pitch.

"Niall loved football, and we know he would have wanted to get involved with this kind of event himself, particularly if our efforts will go towards helping other families rebuild their lives and manage the devastating effects brain injury can cause."

The tournament will include 18 local teams, including many of Niall’s school friends from Heytesbury, who will compete for a trophy at Warminster Highbury FC’s grounds and raise money for brain injury charity Headway.

The tournament will run from 10.30am - 5pm and Niall's parents have once again been invited to attend the fundraiser and present a trophy to the winner.

To get involved or support the team, contact Ellis Kaey on 0115 924 0800 or e-mail projects@headway.org.uk