A MEMORIAL football team to remember a young man who was killed in 2009 has received a new kit which will help keep his memory alive.
Rhuddlan-based Burke’s Eleven, which was formed in memory of 20-year-old Anthony Burke, who was murdered in the village just two days before Christmas, has received much needed donations.
The Police and Community Trust (PACT), the Proceeds of Crime Act (POCA) and sponsorship from G & T Storage, has enabled the team to purchase a new strip, together with a new line marking machine.
Anthony’s mother Cindy, said: “Everyone works so hard to keep the team going financially and that is why everyone is supporting them.
“It is great that the funding will enable the lads to keep costs down for the community by marking the pitch up themselves.”
“An awful lot of money is spent on travel and expenses - the team needed a new strip and the funding has made it possible.”
PCSO Mike Rowley added: “This is an excellent example of how the police, other agencies and supporters can actively work together to show their support and commitment to the local community.”
Cindy said the memorial team helps her with her daily battle to move forward.
“Keeping a fantastic son’s memory alive is helping in some small way for myself, and the other victims of this crime, to move on,” she said.
“The formation of the team was a way forward to try to heal.
“We have all suffered so much from shock and grief after the murder, and all who loved Anthony still grieve, it’s not easy to carry on, but we do try each day.”
Cindy added: “Burke’s eleven are a proud team who strive to keep going.”
The side, who picked up a treble last season, winning The Peter Davies Memorial Cup, The Matty Perezues Cup and The Anthony Burke Memorial Cup, was inspired by Anthony’s family and friends following his death.
Oliver Michael Taylor was jailed for life in 2010 for stabbing Anthony to death in Clos y Berllan in Rhuddlan.