YOUNG footballers took to the pitch in a tournament in memory of a late stalwart of the game.

Ivor Gray MBE, of Stocksfield Football Club, died aged 86.

The footballing legend, who lived on Guessburn, was involved with Stocksfield for decades, helping to coach, referee and organise youth football.

At the time of his death, Phil Murray, coach and secretary, who was taught by Ivor as a child, said: "He was ahead of his time.

"He wasn’t one to leave anyone out and would find a way to make the game accessible for everybody.

"He was a big advocate of getting girls into football and making sure they had opportunities to play and it was the participation rather than the victory which mattered to him.

"I’d be surprised if fewer than 100 per cent of those coached by him weren’t involved in football in some way now.”

Ivor was presented with an MBE in 2007 for services to youth football and a fundraising campaign started after his death saw hundreds raised.

At Stocksfield, Hexham Milan took home the U7 trophy, while home team Stocksfield Panthers won the U8s.

The U9 and U10 teams are due to play on May 27.