Tributes to Sunday League Footballer

The friend of a popular footballer who tragically died after a match turned ugly on Sunday (30) said he will be remembered for his upbeat attitude on and off the pitch.

Stephen Ritchie, 43, was playing for Old Greenfordians against Kingshill FC before sustaining a serious blow to the head just minutes after winning the game.

Long-term friend Stephen Hawkins who played football with the amateur centre midfielder said the whole community is mourning the loss of a committed and talented father.

Mr Ritchie, he said, gave many younger players a run for their money and had also played for Northolt Rugby Club, Southall FC and Northolt Post FC.

The 44-year-old said:"His sporting career spanned more than 20 years.

"Without a doubt he was always upbeat before the game, every minute of every game and even after the game.

"He always kept the team's spirit up, was always positive and never in a bad mood."

The emergency services were called to Little Harlington playing fields in Hayes at about 12:20pm, but the victim had already stopped breathing by the time they arrived.

A London Ambulance Service spokesman said: "Despite extensive efforts to resuscitate him sadly he was pronounced dead at the scene at 1:05pm."

Officers cordoned off part of the pitch, which is next to Chelsea's old training ground, now used by Championship side QPR.

Mr Hawkins added: "He played at a high standard and was an aggressive player, going from box to box and was a talker and a leader.

"Even at 43 he was committed to football and played with a majority of players in their early 20s and I honestly think he would have continued till the end.

"There will be so many friends and family at his funeral as Stephen was so popular both with his team mates and opponents and it's a big loss to everyone."

A post mortem at Uxbridge Mortuary on Monday gave the cause of death as a head injury.

Darren Forwood, 20 of Frays Avenue, West Drayton will appear at the Old Bailey charged with the murder of Stephen Ritchie and Brandon Thompson, 20 of Widmore Road, Hillingdon will appear at the Old Bailey charged with ABH at a date to be advised.

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