A FITTING tribute was paid to the late Liam McOmish as a memorial match was held in his honour on Sunday.

The former Crossgates Primrose player passed away suddenly on May 28 last year.

One of his ex-teammates and close friends, Bailie Kay, worked with the club to organise the charity game with all funds raised going to Scottish Association for Mental Health (SAMH).

More than £2,500 was raised as a Crossgates Primrose XI faced a Friends of Liam XI at Humbug Park, Crossgates.

A minute's applause was held before kick-off as Liam's family joined both sides on the park as they remembered the popular 21-year-old who had played with Primrose from the age of 17.

Kevan McArthur, club secretary, who had known Liam since he joined from Hillfield Swifts, said: "The turnout proved how much love and affection people had for him.

"Liam's name is still on our teamsheet for every game and his photo is in the dressing room. He remains a key part of this football club.

"It was a fantastic day given the circumstances and it couldn't have gone any better.

"While entry to the game was a £1 donation, it was only notes that were being handed over to add to the donation pot.

"The club would like to thank everyone that came along and to all the volunteers that helped make the day what it was.

"This is now going to become an annual match to honour him and to raise money for charity."

Liam also became the first recipient of the 'Drew Telford Player of the Year' award.

Andrew 'Drew' Telford played for Primrose in the 1950's and was a life-long fan of the club before he died in February.

His family donated the trophy to the club after his passing.

Liam was a fan of Falkirk FC, and the club also donated strips for the Friends of Liam side to wear for the game.

The fundraising for SAMH continues on Saturday as Bailie and friend Ross Wright run the Edinburgh Marathon in Liam’s memory, with more than £1,300 already raised via the online fundraising page: www.justgiving.com/fundraising/bailie-kay