COMIC actor Ricky Tomlinson paid a surprise visit to a charity football match held in his son’s memory.
The actor’s son Clifton died on December 4, 2004, just three weeks before his 34th birthday and the sad loss inspired Terry Smullen, who taught football to Clifton when he was a boy, to hold an annual charity match in his honour.
Terry did not think Ricky knew anything about the tradition so couldn’t believe his eyes when the Royle Family star turned up at the Penygelli playing field in Coedpoeth on Wednesday evening to cheer the lads on.
The 48-year-old said: “It’s always a great day. It brings everyone out and the lads are still so keen to meet up and play in honour of Clifton.
“It makes us think about our memories of him and we have a good laugh and raise cash for charity.
“Ricky turning up just made it extra special and I want to thank him for coming along and supporting us.
“I think he was really touched by what we do and he had a laugh with the crowd.
“Ricky is always so generous and he very kindly added a donation to our fundraising effort.
“We even had a good chat about the old days when our children were young.”
More than 30 supporters braved the chilly weather to support the teams and the group raised nearly £400 for Hope House Children’s Hospice.
Terry, of Heol Bathafarn, Coedpoeth, revealed the group always visits Clifton’s grave on the anniversary and he is delighted by what can still be achieved in the name of a local man.
He said: “I remember Clifton well. He was a skilled footballer, a real talent in the club I used to run here.
“My lads grew up with him and even though he was a bit older he was so kind to them.
“They still talk about him now.”
According to Terry, Ricky, who lives locally, has pledged to keep in touch with the group and has offered to help set up an annual match in the summer as well to support local charities and keep the memory of his son alive.