Football fundraiser in honour of Norton's favourite son

The six-a-side tournament at Ryecroft Road playing fields on Saturday netted £2,000 for Royal Hallamshire’s neurological unit.

It takes the total to more than £7,000 as Darron Januszkiewicz’s family strives to thank the unit who provided great care for him in his final days.

Darron was killed in a one-punch attack in June last year, two days after his 35th birthday.

His brother Michael was thrilled with the turnout on Saturday, with 22 teams of players, many of whom new Darron, playing.

“It’s a testament to him that so many people were there,” Michael said.

There was also a big crowd on hand watching the action.

Bozza’s Ferrets took a 2-0 victory over Railway in the final which Michael refereed.

A function at the Royal Hotel afterwards was where the events of the day really hit home for the family.

Michael and Darron’s mother Rosemary was on hand at the pub.

“Mum was a bit emotional,” Michael said.

Michael, 38, paid tribute to Darron’s best mate, Robert Wilson, for his help in organising the football day.

“Rob is as much of a brother to Darron as I am,” Michael said.

He also thanked the community for its solid support.

“Everyone bought into it,” Michael said.

Thousands of people viewed a Facebook live video of the draw the night before the tournament.

“It’s been unbelievable,” Michael said.

The family has plenty more fundraisers planned to support the hospital.

They will take donations during a sponsored walk around the area on June 3.

The walk will start at the Royal Hotel on West End Road.

Family members will walk to Campsall, Sutton, Askern and back to Norton again.

Michael said raising money for the cause gave the family a sense of focus.

“And it’s given the community a focus,” he said.

“It’s really put our community in a good light.”

He said Darron’s memmory would live on through the fundraiser.

“We’re raising money in his name, so he has a permanent legacy,” he said.