HUNDREDS of villagers braved pouring rain and wind at the weekend to support a series of charity football matches in memory of a much-loved member of the community.

Residents of Sacriston and neighbouring Langley Park, descended on Sacriston Welfare Football Ground on Saturday for a fundraising competition. The event marked the first anniversary of the death of Sacriston woman Mary Hayton, who died aged 42 of cancer of the pancreas on June 22 last year.

Her sister Eileen Fort said: "It was an absolutely fantastic event. About 400 people from both villages braved the weather to come and cheer the players on. We would like to thank the people of both villages for all their support and help since the death of Mary."

After Mary's death, her family set up memorial fund in her name to raise money for Cancer Research UK.

The communities have already raised more than £8,000. A further £3,000 was raised at the weekend, but fundraisers are still counting and are expecting that figure to be event higher.

The Sacriston Ladies and Langley Park Ladies drew 3-3, but Sacriston took the title after winning a penalty shootout. The Sacriston Men's Over 40s beat Langley Park Mens Over 40s 4-2.

Sacriston Workingmen's Club football team beat Langley Park Workingmen's Club 2-1 to take the Mary Hayton Charity Shield.