A football tournament held in memory of a player who died aged just 27 has netted £2,000 for cardiac-related causes.

The Comet: Mitchell Cole, who sadly died aged just 27.Mitchell Cole, who sadly died aged just 27. (Image: Archant)

The Mitchell Cole Memorial Tournament was held at Arlesey Town FC’s Armadillo Stadium on Saturday to remember the late midfielder who represented the former Blues player who also represented Stevenage FC and Hitchin Town.

Mitchell – who had to retire from the game due to a heart condition – had been working with Cardiomyopathy UK prior to his sudden death in December 2012, so £1,750 of the funds raised on the day will go to the charity.

The remaining £250 will pay for a new battery for Arlesey Town’s defibrillator, in recognition of the club’s continued support.

The event was organised for the fourth time by the Stevenage Supporters Association FC, and a crowd of around 200 watched the tournament – including Stevenage FC manager Darren Sarll – with Boro goalkeeper Chris Day involved as a guest referee.

The Comet: Mitchell Cole tournament organisers Keith Bell and Mitchell's brother Ben ColeMitchell Cole tournament organisers Keith Bell and Mitchell's brother Ben Cole (Image: Danny Loo Photography 2015)

Barnet’s supporters association won the 11-a-side event – made up of games lasting 21 minutes in recognition of Mitchell’s shirt number – by defeating SSAFC in the final.

Reflecting on the day, the Stevenage association’s team manager and event organiser Keith Bell said: “To beat last year’s total of £1,660 was the aim and we did it. I’m so proud and honoured to have organised the tournament for the fourth time and every year it keeps getting stronger.

“I couldn’t have done it without all the help and support around me, from the SSAFC lads to the ladies selling the raffle tickets and doing a fantastic job.

“The sum raised shows how much Mitchell was well loved – not only at Stevenage FC but in football – and how strong the event has become over the years.

“To see many smiling faces on the day and everyone enjoying themselves makes the day special.

“The money raised will help Cardiomyopathy UK massively and its the least everyone on the day could do in memory of such a fantastic player.”