THE FIRST anniversary commemorating the life of football fanatic David Taylor is to be kicked off with a bench dedicated to his memory.

David, 25, a dedicated Manchester United and Rossendale United fan, will be remembered at a fun day, organised in his home town of Newchurch, Rossendale.

David, of Greendale Avenue, Newchurch, was killed in Rawtenstall in July 2003 after Andrew McDonald, 19, headbutted him in the street outside the Crown Pub, in Rawtenstall, causing him to collapse and die moments after the assault. McDonald pleaded guilty to manslaugter and was jailed for five years at Preston Crown Court.

A bench, supplied and built by Croppers Stone, based in Water, is to be inaugurated by local TV and media celebrity Ted Robbins on Saturday, July 17, from 1pm.

The day, sponsored by Rossendale developers, the Hurstwood Group, will incorporate a fun day of displays and entertainment, featuring Goldwing Motorcycles, of which David was a member, super cars, birds of prey from Lancashire Hawks and Owls, a barbecue, games, crown green bowling, and pool competitions.

The events are being split between the Boars Head and The Blue Bell, Newchurch Road. His parents, David and Caroline, said they have been overwhelmed by the support they have received since his death. David's name has been used to set up a trust fund to help a disadvantaged youngster with sporting aspirations reach their full potential.

His parents decided to set up the fund after David, despite suffering from cerebral palsy, qualified as a football referee shortly before his death.

His dad said: "The David Taylor Memorial Fund continues to gather pace and support again reinforcing the community spirit which David's life so personified."