The family of a much-loved teenager have "hailed a great display of community spirit" as a charity football match was successfully held.

Friends and former teammates of Ethan Wright united on the football field as more than 550 people turned out to show their support.

Ethan, 16, died after a cycle crash with a van in Lowestoft in November 2021 in Lowestoft.

Lowestoft Journal: Ethan Wright. Picture: The Wright familyEthan Wright. Picture: The Wright family (Image: The Wright family)

Having played more than 160 football matches at youth level for Waveney FC his parents and younger brother - with the support of the club and Lowestoft Town FC - organised a 'charity match in memory of Ethan' at the Fosters Solicitors Community Stadium on February 19.

Lowestoft Journal: The charity match in memory of Ethan Wright. Picture: Bryan GrintThe charity match in memory of Ethan Wright. Picture: Bryan Grint (Image: Bryan Grint)

As well as the football, a raffle and donations on the day saw funds raised for the East Anglian Air Ambulance.

Lowestoft Journal: The charity match in memory of Ethan Wright. Picture: Bryan GrintThe charity match in memory of Ethan Wright. Picture: Bryan Grint (Image: Bryan Grint)

With Waveney Panthers taking on Waveney U18, it finished 3-3 with Waveney U18 winning on penalties.

Lowestoft Journal: The charity match in memory of Ethan Wright. Picture: Bryan GrintThe charity match in memory of Ethan Wright. Picture: Bryan Grint (Image: Bryan Grint)

Ethan's parents Gav and Jen, and brother Jack, said: "Huge thanks to everyone involved to make this a memorable occasion.

"We were really pleased with the excellent attendance, testament to Ethan who we collectively remember and a great display of community spirit.

"Special thanks to all players, coaches and officials for a fantastic match with the added drama of a penalty shoot out.

"Thanks to Waveney for organising and Lowestoft Town FC for the kind use of their facilities.

"Thanks also to everyone involved in ‘team raffle’ from contributors to those selling tickets.

"Funds raised through bucket collections and raffle tickets is currently at £3,607.63 - a great amount for an amazing cause.

"Thanks again to all for your continued support."

Waveney FC chairman Mark Gamble added: "It was a massive success and testament to Ethan.

"We estimated over 550 supporters were in the ground and just over £3,600 was raised for the East Anglian Air Ambulance, which is a fantastic amount."