MORE than 100 people came together at a charity football match to remember an Abertillery man who died suddenly on a night out four years ago.

People from across the Blaenau Gwent towns of Abertillery, Cwmtillery and Blaina took part in the third annual charity match to celebrate the life of Rhys Sterry yesterday.

Mr Sterry, 21, passed away at Nevill Hall hospital on Monday July 9, 2012, after collapsing in Somerset Street while out for a drink with his uncle Ryan.

Organiser and close friend Sian Evans said: “This is the third year we have organised this event and it takes a lot of effort but it’s worth it to remember Rhys, and that is what it’s about.

“I was so nervous today as it takes a lot to organise it but we had so many good times over the years and it’s a tribute to him that all of these people come out year after year. Over the past two years we have raised nearly £2,000 for Asthma UK.”

The charity football match kicked things off at The Woodlands Field, Cwmtillery at 1.30pm with two teams in blue and red featuring some of Mr Sterry’s family and closest friends including his father Jeff.

Nicky Madden, fiancé of father Jeff, said: “It’s important to keep his memory alive and it’s amazing how many people have come out in support again today.

“It’s good for Jeff as the past couple of years have been a real challenge. He was a very well-known and liked boy who we have so many happy memories off.”

Family friend Lisa Collier added: “Its brilliant to see so many people today and its fantastic to bring everyone together in memory of Rhys, Sian does an absolutely amazing job.

“We’ve been lucky with the weather but come rain or sunshine we would still have come down here for him.”

Everyone taking part donated £5 and raffle tickets were sold at £2.

A prize giving ceremony was held at the New Bridgend pub on Pen-Y-Bont Road after the game before everyone headed to The Commercial.

Raffle prizes included an original signed photo donated by the Stereophonics, museum tickets to the Liverpool FC Foundation and tickets to a Newport Gwent Dragons home fixture.