Playing in Peter’s memory

Buy photos » A memorial football match is taking place in memory of Peter Rippington. (s)

A CHARITY football match is set to take place today (Friday) in memory of Alvechurch teacher Peter Rippington.

Up to 2,000 people are expected to descend on Alvechurch Football Club for the event which has been organised by Peter’s children Amy and Max.

Amy said: “Since Dad died we have not only been trying to come to terms with his death but also to celebrate his life. Not only was he a dedicated and inspirational teacher, he was also a wonderful father and husband.”

Ahead of the match, which kicks-off at 7pm, there will be a one minute applause in memory of Mr Rippington who was killed in a coach crash on Sunday, February 19 as he returned from a school skiing trip with 49 others from Italy’s popular Valle d’Aosta skiing region.

A host of companies also donated raffle prizes to be announced on the night including a stadium tour and complimentary lunch at Villa Park for four, a signed West Bromwich Albion shirt and five personal training sessions with Gavin Townsend, who is sponsoring the match.

Entry costs £2 and there will also be an opportunity on the night to buy a memorial book about Mr Rippington, at a cost of £20, written and compiled by author and ex-pupil Richard Atkinson. All proceeds will be donated to Peter’s Memorial Fund.

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