FOOTBALLERS old and young gathered in Bicester to play an annual game in memory of a teenager who died 10 years ago.

The Sibley Dreamers, led by town and district councillor Les Sibley, lost 7-6 to Slade Farm United, the team led by green campaigner Kevin Peake.

The Nick Leach Memorial Match is played at Bicester’s King’s Meadow ground in memory of Nick Leach, who died in a car accident in Bucknell Road in 1999.

Every year, before kick-off, a wreath and the Nick Leach Cup are placed on the half-way line while the players and spectators observe a two-minute silence in Mr Leach’s memory.

After the game Nick’s family presented the cup and medals to the players.

Mr Sibley said: “This year was of special significance as it marked the 10th anniversary of the former Slade Farm defender’s tragic death.

“A large crowd gathered to mark the occasion and witnessed a rollercoaster match.”

The football match started during Mr Sibley’s year of office as the town’s mayor.

It was part of an initiative to improve communication between older and younger members of the community.

After Mr Leach died, the match became an annual event played in his memory.