Jonathan Barclay was playing in goal for a veterans' team in Walgrave on Boxing Day last year when he died.

The 46-year-old had lived in Swindon since the 1980s but grew up in Corby and was visiting friends and relatives there when the tragedy struck.

And earlier this week a memorial bench was unveiled outside the village hall in Walgrave, overlooking the football pitch where Mr Barclay played on a regular basis.

Jonathan's wife Jane said: "Jonathan was born and spent his school years in Corby. He was mad about football and was a life-long Chelsea fan.

"He not only liked to watch football but also enjoyed playing the sport. His usual position was goalkeeper."

The bench was commissioned by colleagues of Jonathan's mother Valerie, who works for Midlands Co-operative Funeral Home in Darley Dale Road in the town.

She said: "I would like to thank everyone involved in arranging this tribute."

Mr Barclay was born in Corby and lived with his parents in Upperfield Grove and later in Monks Way.

He attended Beanfield Infants School, Rockingham Road Primary School and the Samuel Lloyd Secondary School, where he met his wife.

The couple moved to Swindon when he got a job there as a computer analyst.

Jean Cooksley, from Midlands Co-op Funeral Services, said: "We wanted to do something special to remember the life of Jonathan and, after speaking to his mother, we felt a commemorative bench overlooking the football pitch would be a fitting tribute.

"Walgrave Amber Football Club has dedicated a trophy in memory of Jonathan and in future years, Walgrave Amber and Veterans will play for the Jonathan Barclay Memorial Cup on Boxing Day.

"We are very pleased Jonathan will be remembered in such a fitting and positive way."