A BUMPER crowd turned out for a charity football match in memory of a little boy from Bowdon Vale.

There were around 3,000 spectators at Altrincham's J. Davidson Stadium at Moss Lane on Sunday, eight months after 10-year-old Isaac Maley died, after suffering a severe asthma attack.

Former Bowdon Church School Isaac was a keen football player and so his parents and friends organised the fundraising day - called 'There's Only One Isaac Maley' - as a tribute to him.

The celebrity match and fun day raised £34,000 for the charity 'Once Upon a Smile', which has helped to support Isaac's parents, Vicky and Andrew.

Football stars Denis Irwin, Paul Dickov and Bryan Robson turned out for a team led by Isaaac's dad, Andrew, against a celebrity team that included Emmerdale star Anthony Quinlan and Nico Mirallegro, from the TV series 'My Mad Fat Diary'.

Isaac's mum, Vicky, said: "Andrew and I are completely overwhelmed by the generosity and support from our community.

"The day meant the world to us. Standing on the football pitch and looking in to the crowds of people filled my heart with pride. Thank you."

The match ended with Andrew's team taking the 'There's Only One Isaac Maley' trophy after a 5-4 win.

There was also a junior match between Altrincham Tigers - Isaac's team - and Bowdon C of E, his sschool, which Bowdon won 2-1.

To support the charity go to http://www.onceuponasmile.org.uk/