RUNCORN footballers are keeping alive the memory of their first recruit who died ‘chasing his dream’ in Australia.

Engineering student Josh Furber, 20, from Beechwood, fell 300ft from a waterfall in January 2013, while on a gap year from university.

BPR Leiria Football Club, the first team he joined when he was 10, plays a testimonial tournament every year to honour him.

This year, his family has sponsored a new kit featuring pictures of Josh.

Club secretary Julie Cole said: “Josh was one of the original players. He was so pleased to have been picked, he screamed down the phone.

“He played for the club as a youngster and loved every minute of each match, often giving up his season ticket at Manchester United with his dad Mark to ensure he was at every game.”

“His family was so loyal too always there to support him come rain or shine.”

Josh was a ‘truly special person to know’, she said.

“His family are still very much part of the club and support us through the year,” added Julie.

Goalkeeper Kurt Crosbie from the under 11s received the 2016 Josh Furber testimonial trophy and Tommy Crane received the Josh Furber recognition award.

Josh’s mum Jayne, 50, said: “We’ve been so touched by the support we have received from everyone at the club.

“We miss Josh so much but to know that his memory remains alive in people’s hearts and thoughts is very comforting. He was, and continues to be, truly inspirational.”

Josh’s family watched the BPR team snatch victory against Hurricanes in the first game in their new kit, making it four wins out of four matches in the St Helens League.

“There is such an air of silent respect around Josh,” added Jayne.

“These youngsters have never met him and yet they feel as though they know him.

“Josh knew he was no Ronaldo on the pitch but the dedication, commitment and loyalty he put in were akin to Ronaldo’s work ethic.

“We found it quite frustrating as despite having a season ticket for what we considered to be the best club in the land he chose BPR over United every time as he didn’t want to let anyone down.”