Town comes together to remember a much-loved local footballer

Thousands of pounds have been raised in memory of Vince Wright, a popular figure in Warminster’s football community, through two community events.

The 52-year-old was a keen footballer who played for Warminster Town’s first team and coached young players. He died on 9th February after suffering a cardiac arrest while playing walking football for his Amesbury team in Poole.

In his memory, two community events were held to honour Vince’s life and support local charities: a charity walk and a youth football tournament.

On Sunday 13th July, Vince’s friends and family paid tribute with a charity walk from Warminster Town Football Club to Cley Hill.

Organised by Rich Young, the event raised £1,755 for The Salvation Army and The Trussell Trust.

Rich said, “We had 48 people participate in the walk from Warminster Town Football Club to Cley Hill, where we stopped to chat, reminisce, laugh and remember the life of Vince.

“After the walk back to Warminster Town Football Club, we gathered for a few drinks and a barbecue. It was a glorious day to pay homage to the Warminster legend, Vince.”

Meanwhile, on Sunday 29th June, Warminster Highbury FC Under-14s invited local teams to participate in a charity tournament in Vince’s memory.

The football stalwart had been part of the Under-14 coaching team for the past five years and brought “so much enthusiasm and support to all players.”

Tracey Ferguson, one of the organisers, said, “The day was a fantastic success as we welcomed teams from Trowbridge, Westbury, Melksham, Heytesbury and Codford, Blandford and South Newton to the Highbury Ground on Woodcock Road.

“The overall winners of the tournament were Melksham Tornadoes, with South Newton and Barford Hornets coming away as winners of the Plate competition.

“A raffle and BBQ were held, and all proceeds raised on the day went to The Trussell Trust and The Salvation Army.

“Warminster Highbury U14s would like to thank the tournament sponsors, Premier Installations and Chris Pearce Construction, as well as everybody who donated raffle prizes and supported the event.

“The event wouldn’t have been possible without all the kind support we received from the community.”