Football fun in Craig's memory (From Penarth Times)

Football fun in Craig's memory

WOULD-BE soccer stars of all ages, shapes and sizes donned their boots on Saturday to remember Penarth lad Craig Hopkins - and to raise money for charity.

Sixteen teams, made up of local pub staff, businesses and Craig's friends, took part in the tournament at the Old Penarthians' playing fields.

They collectively raised a fantastic 2,600 for Ty Hafan Children's Hospice in Sully.

Craig's dad, Gerald Hopkins, said he is extremely proud of everyone for raising the money, and thanked everyone for turning up.

"It was a brilliant day, but also an emotional one," he said. "It made me realise how much Craig's friends thought of him, and how much they respected him."

Craig was 19 when he was killed on a night out in Cardiff last August. He died when a man from Barry drove his car into him and his friends.

Daryl Gronow, aged 20, of Lee Road, was sentenced to six years in prison for manslaughter at Cardiff Crown Court in February.

The tournament, known as the Craig Hopkins Memorial Cup, was organised by his friends to mark the anniversary of his death.

Craig's best friend, 20-year-old Jason Dousie, said: "Craig was the type of guy everyone needs as a friend. He was always full of life and a good laugh.

"I knew this until August 14, the day he was tragically taken from us.

"It is clear the people of Penarth respected Craig and his family by the way they all enjoyed a great day out on Saturday."