A VILLAGE community is expected to come out in force next week for the opening of a sports pavilion in memory of a keen sportsman who died seven years ago.

Residents of Osmotherley, near Northallerton, were united in grief in 1995 over the death of Jamie Hill, who collapsed near his home just days after his 23rd birthday.

The fit young sportsman collapsed with what doctors at Northallerton's Friarage Hospital later discovered was a brain aneurism and, despite a fight for life, Jamie died a few days later.

With his family's consent, doctors were able to use some of Jamie's organs to give several other people the gift of lift.

Now, after years of fund-raising led by his mother, Una, a new pavilion in honour of Jamie is due to be officially opened at the Thimbleby village sports ground.

The £30,000 facility opens on Saturday, May 11, and Mrs Hill is hoping the day will further boost her son's memorial fund.

"It is just a lovely and fitting tribute to a wonderful son and brother," she said.

"Although it has been a sad time, our very grateful thanks go to everyone who has helped us in any way to reach the target.

"My son was just a lovely lad, so this tribute is very fitting for him. His family, friends and all of the local community have been an enormous help."

Plans for the pavilion were drawn up by local architect Mark Bell, and the building has replaced a crumbling hut which had previously stood on the site.

Jamie played for both Thimbleby and Leake cricket clubs, as well as being a talented motorcyclist and fisherman.

Academically, he received the most outstanding student awards for two successive years at Longlands College, in Middlesbrough.

A series of activities will take place on the opening day, including a cricket match between local teams from Thimbleby and Swainby, brass band performances, various stalls, children's games and an auction of a signed Middlesbrough FC football.

Any groups interested in using the pavilion can contact Stuart Jerram on (01609) 760288.