LYDNEY rugby player Craig Jones is helping to organise a five-a-side football tournament in memory of his late father.

Phil 'Bunner' Jones was only 42 when he died 10 years ago. He was a big figure in local rugby who played for Lydney, Berry Hill and Bream. He even appeared for rugby league outfit Wigan under an assumed name, in the days when players could not readily swap codes.

Phil also coached the Gloucestershire under-19s and South West Clubs' squads. Along with Rhodri Lewis, he helped the county under-19s team reach a Twickenham final.

Craig said: "I think I was about 19 when dad died but it's because of him I got into rugby.

"He was a major influence on so many players of my age, people like Steve Price, who got into the England under-19s set-up, Ben Lewis and Dean Jenkins,

"It was my sisters' idea to organise a football tournament 10 years on from his death. They, Abbie and Laura, have done most of the work."

Phil loved football as well as rugby and had spells playing for Broadwell and Coleford.

The memorial day will take place at Broadwell Football Club on June 26.

Craig said: "We've got lots of things going on and a massive amount of top raffle prizes – Wigan have donated four super league tickets for any match.

"The money we raise will go to Cancer Research.

"We want the day to be a lot of fun and for everyone who knew dad to get together and remember him."