Joel Richards tribute: Thousands of pounds raised at football tournament to Tunisia attack victim

From friends and family to complete strangers, more than 250 people put their astro turf trainers on to take part in the mammoth footballing challenge at Pulse Soccer & Fitness in Wednesbury.

The fundraiser was to raise money for the Smile for Joel charity.

The game, which started at 9am on Saturday and didn't finish until 6am on Sunday, saw 21 teams of all ages from across the West Midlands take part with each team playing an hour each.

Among those who took part were family included his younger brother Owen Richards, 17, who played in the last game to ensure he was on the pitch for that long-awaited final whistle.

Joel's mum, Suzy Richards, said: "It was absolutely lovely. It puts a smile on my face to see so many people come but also a tear. It is very emotional but it's positive - they would have absolutely loved it.

"I just wish they were here to do t with us. The love and support from things like this keeps us going each day."

The driving force behind the fundraiser came from friend Mitchell Titley, who wanted to hold the 21 hour event as Joel would be turning 21 in August.

It's one of 21 charity events being held in honour of Joel and his family who died in 2014.

Suzy, from Wednesbury, lost her 19 year-old-son Joel, brother Adrian Evans, 49 and father Patrick Evans, 78 during the terrorist attack on Sousse beach on June 26 last year where 38 people were killed. All three were Walsall fans.

She added: "Staff worked through the night at Pulse and they kindly donated their facilities for free. The community support was amazing. I can't thank Mitchell Titley, Pulse, Joel's friends, the community and everyone who donated the raffle prizes enough."

Meanwhile, a day of celebration and reflection will be held by the Birmingham FA to mark the official launch of the Joel Richards Legacy Fund.

As a result of his hard work and commitment to refereeing, the Birmingham County FA have created the Joel Richards Legacy Fund.

It will honour Joel's memory and leave a lasting legacy that will benefit the local football family.

On July 31, the Birmingham County FA will be hosting a day full of activities at Ray Hall Lane, Great Barr.

It will feature a headline match taking place later in the afternoon.

The match will officially launch and raise awareness of the fund, whilst raising money on the day.

A fun run is also taking place on September 11 at Sandwell Valley in memory of Joel featuring both 3k and 5k races.

To register email smileforjoel@aol.com or call 0207 2680223. Search 'Smile for Joel' on Facebook for more details.