Football fundraiser nets over £5k in memory of Lanarkshire teen

Friends and family braved the elements in support of mental health awareness in memory of a much-loved East Kilbride teen.

Marking five years since the tragic passing of 18-year-old Alexander Iain Bonomy-Lindsay, the annual Alex Lindsay Cup kicked off on July 1 at Calderglen High.

Despite the bad weather, 160 players turned out for the charity match raising over £5400 for Alex’s dedicated mental health charity, Adored.

The charity match gets bigger and better each year (Robbie Brown)

EKYM beat Harry’s Hoose in a penalty shoot out to lift the trophy for a third time.

Set up by Alex's family, Adored aims to keep his memory alive while helping young men who are struggling with their mental health.

Jill with her beloved son Alex (East Kilbride News)

Inspired by his favourite song, I Wanna be Adored, by The Stone Roses, the cause was established with a focus on mental health and saving young lives.

Thanking Alex’s friend Jack Smith for organising the day, Alex’s mum Jill Bonomy-Lindsay described the event as a “tremendous” success.

She said: “The Alex Lindsay Cup 2023 was yet again a tremendous success.

EKYM lifting the trophy (Robbie Brown)

“Despite the awful weather 160 players joined by their support braved the elements and provided the crowd with quality football and entertainment.

“Kicking off the event, a dance squad from RCV Productions wowed the crowd with a performance to three of Alex’s favourite songs and a medley of emotions ensued.

RCV Productions pre-match dance performance (Robbie Brown)

“The atmosphere, as always, was electric and thanks has to go to so many people for helping to ensure that the day was a success.

“To Alex’s friends who never let him down, you are amazing! The greatest thanks and congratulations goes to Jack Smith, whose unwavering determination and tenacity ensures that each year this event not only takes place, but grows in recognition and popularity. Thank you all.”

A player braves Soul Suites' cold water therapy tub (Robbie Brown)

The charity event is held each year to remember the Motherwell FC fan who tragically took his own life in July 2018.

Now an annual celebration of Alex’s life, the tournament, has raised over £30,000 for mental health charities including Adored and Beautiful Inside and Out.

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