Wisbech St Mary team makes a winning start in memory of huge Norwich City fan Darren Rawthorn

A new football team formed in memory of a popular Fenland player made a winning start at the weekend.

Wisbech St Mary B was set up in tribute to Darren Rawthorn, who was tragically killed after being hit by a car on the A47 back in October 2022.

The 38-year-old was well known across Fenland and West Norfolk footballing circles having played for several clubs during his career, including Tydd, Wisbech St Mary and England’s Hope as well as having a spell as assistant manager at Upwell Town.

Wisbech St Mary B was set up by Paul Richardson and Michael Chow, two former friends and playing colleagues of Darren.

On the new team, Richardson said: "Micheal and I were working together one Sunday morning and started to talk about Darren.

"The conversation quickly flowed on to football and how much fun that one extra season altogether would be.

"We then started to ask a few friends if they would be up for another season to get an idea of numbers.

"These numbers quickly grew to 30+ within days due to Rawth being loved by everyone he played with. Most of the lads are mid to late 30s and a few are in their 40s.

"We had to then find a place to play. Micheal approached Wisbech St Mary, where Rawth had been playing football since a boy on and off over the years."

A lot of players have come out of retirement to play for the side, which has a slightly different club kit with the badge and sponsor changed to honour Rawth.

"Everyone at the club has been amazing in helping us get this team off the ground and running. Chow and I now have a newly gained respect for managers and the work that goes on before Saturday even comes around each week.

" All the lads agreed to pay for their kit so they could keep it. The kit is slightly different from the usual Wisbech St Mary one as it has Canary Rawth across the front because Rawth was a huge Norwich City fan.

"We are aiming to win everything we can with this group of friends.

"Alex Holmes came up with the idea of doing a team photo in the changing room every week before the game so we all have a camera roll full of great memories of this season and why we are all together."

Wisbech St Mary B got off to the best possible start as they defeated Wisbech Town Acorns 4-1 In Division 4C of the Cambs League.

Stuart Brown (2), Ricky Mason and Adam Key all found the back of the net in a performance Rawth would have been proud of.

"It’s free to come down to watch us, shout at us and most importantly laugh with us," said Richardson.

"All the fixtures are easily found on the Cambs FA website."