PICTURE GALLERY: Hundreds at match in memory of Burton Park Wanderers' biggest fan

Balloons were released at the game in memory of Jay Brewer

Jay Brewer from Burton Latimer underwent several years of treatment in both the UK and America to give him the best chance of beating a brain tumour, but he lost his fight on January 7.

The football club which he loved wanted to dedicate its next home match after Jay’s funeral to the youngster, but unfortunately the game had to be postponed due to a water-logged pitch.

But the weather was better on Saturday so the club was able to come together to pay tribute to Jay with its game against Raunds.

While the 1-3 loss was disappointing, the day, which saw a huge attendance of 371, was all about Jay.

His brother Ryan led the Burton Park Wanderers team out with the match ball and he was followed out by the players wearing t-shirts with Jay’s picture on them.

Every age group from the club was represented at the game, which included a minute’s silence followed by a round of applause in celebration of Jay’s life.

The sky was then filled with balloons as they were released in Jay’s memory.

A statement from chairman Stewart Glendenning posted on the club website said: “What can we say, a purely fantastic turn-out today to say our final farewells to Jay.

“It was an amazing experience for everybody and the Brewer family were extremely proud and honoured for the turn-out.

“Once again all associated with our club did not let us down.

“We rallied around each other and we supported those who needed us in their own hour of need and we did not disappoint.

“You should all be incredibly proud of yourselves tonight.

“Jay would have been delighted with today, I promise you all that.”

Mr Glendenning also thanked numerous people for their efforts on the day, and his statement went on to say: “To see all our youngsters out on the pitch was for a chairman an amazing sight, I was so proud of everybody and thank you all for braving the cold.

“Jay will have been a very happy boy today and it’s all down to all of you.

“Thank you all so much.”

A collection for Burton Latimer Ex-Servicemen’s Association and the Luke Lester Fund also took place on the day.

To read the chairman’s statement in full click here