A FIREFIGHTER who lost a long battle with cancer will be remembered by friends and colleagues next month at a cricket tournament in his memory.

Chris Kenyon, who died in March 2012 aged 56, is the inspiration behind the event which will raise money for Wheatfields Hospice in Leeds, where he received care.

Money raised at the Chris Kenyon Memorial Trophy tournament will also go to the Bradford Burns Research Unit and to the national Firefighter's Charity.

Mr Kenyon, who lived in Thackley, spent 25 years of his firefighting career based at Idle, followed by five years at Rawdon, then six years working in community safety across the Bradford district.

Colleague and friend Alan Holdsworth, who is watch commander at Stanningley Fire Station, said he was hoping for a bumper turnout at Yeadon Cricket Club in High Street on Sunday, September 13.

"We've had lots of interest this year and have seven teams signed up to play. It'll be a fixed annual, event now, every September. The weather has been getting progressively better for us since we started so we're keeping our fingers crossed for sunshine this year.

"Chris always had a smile on his face, even when he was poorly. He always put on a brave face. He was a funny, cheeky, witty man who definitely had the gift of the gab," Mr Holdsworth said.

"Because it's the 30th anniversary of the Valley Parade tragedy we decided this year to give some of the money we make to the Bradford Burns Appeal and then we'll be sharing with the Firefighters' Fharity. Every year after that the money will go to Wheatfields and the Firefighters' Fharity again."

As well as the six-a-side matches there will be lots more to keep the crowds busy with fun for the children including a bouncy castle, ice cream van and Rawdon fire engine.

There will also be a raffle with prizes including meals for two, Bradford City tickets and signed Leeds Rhino and Yorkshire Cricket Club shirts.

Mr Kenyon's widow, Christine, and her friends will be preparing the teas on the day. There is also a licensed bar in the clubhouse and there will be a barbecue.

The tournament kicks off at noon on Sunday, September 13.