St Dogmaels football club's first and second teams played a match in memory of former player Simon Wilson.

There was acute sadness in the community and further afield when 36-year-old Simon died tragically recently.

At the weekend players paid their respects to the popular native of St Dogmaels, who lived in Holland.

First team manager Steve Jerry Williams said “Without a fixture, we were pleased to play a game in memory of Simon.

"His death came as a tremendous shock to all.”

A fundraising page established to raise memorial costs for Simon achieved its target within hours of being set up last week.

Posted ‘on behalf of the St Dogmaels' Community’, the Just Giving page originally aimed to raise £5,000 to help support the Wilson family following Simon’s sudden and unexpected death in Paris at the age of 36.

The total amount raised stood at over £8,500 on Sunday as countless friends and relatives rallied round to remember someone who had ‘touched so many people’s lives’.

“Simon was a beloved son, brother and partner, with friends and family across the world - he will be thoroughly missed,” the Just Giving page states.

“Throughout his 36 years on earth he touched many people’s lives, all of which would agree that he was a good and kind man.

“He was an active sportsman on and off the field, and enthusiastic supporter of everyone around him.

“Please help us to raise the money we need to lay Simon to rest and organise a fitting memorial for him.

“We are grateful for any contributions, big or small, and thank you all for your kindness at this sad time.”

A former footballer with Cardigan Town as well as St Dogmaels, Simon had been living in Amsterdam with his partner.

He is survived by his parents, Peter and Sue and sister Melanie.

Paying tribute last week, local county councillor Mike James said: “Friends in many countries will be grieving the loss of someone who touched the hearts of everyone he met.”