v Neil Matthews passed away on Monday 8th May 2023, after a brave battle with cancer.

Anyone that had the privilege of meeting Neil knew that he was football obsessed, starting his career as a professional footballer, and finishing with managing Bradford City Academy.

In memory of Neil, his family and his eldest son’s football team, AFC Volunteers, have arranged an annual football game to be held to remember a great man.

One team will consist of a Neil Matthews XI, which will comprise of his two son’s friends and family, several of those being coached by Neil when they were kids. They will play the current AFC Volunteers XI.

The game this year will be held at Calderdale College on Saturday 22nd July, 1:00pm KO. All donations will go to Action For Sport, a charity close to Neil’s heart, who aims to prevent poverty being the barrier for children and young people participating in sport.

Here is a link to the charity - http://actionforsport.com

After the game, people will be heading to The Fleece Countryside Inn, Ripponden New Bank, Halifax, HX4 0DJ, for drinks and food. Neil would regularly spend time with teammates, friends and family after matches for Halifax Town FC at The Fleece, making it a fitting tribute.

Everyone is welcome to attend the game and pay their respects to Neil, but if you’re unable to attend, any donation will be greatly appreciated.