FOOTBALL and the forces have yet again benefitted from the Alec Lucas Memorial Fund.

Now in its seventh year, the tribute to one of Peebles' most popular sons has raised over £115,000.

The causes which benefit were dear to the heart of Marine Lucas, who was killed in action during a tour of duty in Afghanistan in 2008 at the age of just 24.

The annual seven-aside competition in his honour, with accompanying fun day, has become a highlight of the footballing calendar in Tweeddale.

On Sunday Alec's father, Adrian, who is one of the driving forces behind the memorial fund, handed over £8,000 worth of cheques.

Adrian told us: “The presentation allowed us to express gratitude to some of the local supporters, whom we hadn’t had the chance to thank formally, for the help and contribution they made to a fantastic memorial tournament and family fun day in Peebles.

“The event was a huge success due to the support, help and love of the local people who turned out in abundance.

“The family and organising committee, would like to thank everyone for their help and generosity.

"In line with the aspirations of the fundraising committee and our charitable purpose, £8,000 was distributed - £6,500 went to local teams and £1,500 to military charities."

Peebles youth football received a cheque for £2,500 from the Memorial Fund - bringing the total they have received from the charity to a whopping £20,000.

Leithen Vale Sports Club, Tweeddale Rovers, Peebles Rovers, Peebles Amateurs, Leithen Rovers, Linton Hotspur and Vale of Leithen all received cheques for £500.

Peebles' newest football team, the Over 60s walking team, collected £200 and CG Sporting Enterprises were given £300 towards creating a girls' football team in the area.

Alec had played football for most local clubs before joining the Royal Marines.

He went on to captain the 45 Commando team which won the Navy Cup in 2008.

And he also captained two under-21 Scotland teams against Wales, winning both home and away matches.

On Sunday three military charities benefitted from the local fundraising committee.

The Royal Marine Charitable Trust Fund (RMCTF)  collected £500, the Woodland Garden at 45 Commando in Arbroath was given £500, and there was also a £500 cheque for Horseback UK.

Next year’s Memorial Tournament and Family Fun Day, will take place on Saturday, May 28 at Whitestone Park in Peebles.