What an amazing occcasion - Clitheroe FC hosted a memorial day and benefit match today (Sunday 25th July) in honour of former Clitheroe, and Trafford striker James Dean. "Deano" tragically passed away in May this year, aged just 35, leaving two young sons without a father. He was well known throughout non-league football following a long and distinguished career. James played for Trafford in the 2017-18 season, and also turned out for Ashton United, Stalybridge Celtic, Chorley, Altrincham, FC Halifax Town, Padiham, Bury and AFC Fylde amongst others.
In bright sunshine and a carnival atmosphere at Clitheroe's Shawbridge stadium, ex-team-mates and friends of Deano's took to the field in Clitheroe blue and Trafford yellow, to pay tribute to a man who's life ended way too soon, and to raise a little bit of money for his boys to help them on their way.
The exhibition game that followed finished 7-2 to the Clitheroe legends, Trafford being hampered by a lack of subs which saw them down to ten men in the 2nd half. Add to that, the fantastic striking abilities of Clitheroe's Neil Reynolds' (FC Utd manager) 11-year-old son and there was no chance that any of the goalkeepers Trafford tried out, could keep those shots out!
What a great day, and the presentation to Deano's dad of his actual No.10 jersey from his season at Trafford FC left hardly a dry eye in the stadium. We hope he was up there looking down on us with a smile. God bless you Deano!