A CHARITY football match in memory of one of Atherton's best loved characters has raised almost £2,000 for Manchester's Christie Hospital.

Following the death of Ernie Ackers from cancer in July, 2003, his friends at Atherton Collieries FC, where he was a lifelong supporter, organised the Ernie Ackers Memorial Match to raise money in his memory.

Born and bred in Atherton, Ernie played for the town team before signing for Howe Bridge Mills. He also helped to found Atherton Town FC, coached Pennington FC and was a trainer at Atherton Collieries.

Emil Anderson, from Atherton Collieries said: "Ernie was a much loved character and was still heavily involved with the Colls up until his sad death. Ernie always did his best to support charities, running marathons and getting people to dig deep into their pockets, so it seemed appropriate to organise a charity match in his memory.

The match, which was supported by Atherton Windows Ltd, was held earlier this year and club bosses met with staff of Christie's to hand over a cheque for £1,932.

The match saw Atherton Collieries Past and Present play against Bolton Wanderers Veterans. The score was 2 - 2.