Yeltz star's funeral announced

Funeral arrangements for former Halesowen Town defender Neil Moore have been released by his family.

The popular right-back and married father-of-two passed away in hospital earlier this month aged 51 and his funeral will be held next Monday [October 22] at 1.45pm at Christ Church, Maughan Street, Quarry Bank.

The Yelz star is best remembered by supporters at the Evo-Stik NPL First Division South club for his heroics in three of Halesowen's last FA Vase Finals appearances, including their 3-0 victory over Southall at Wembley in May 1986.

Last Tuesday night Halesowen held a minute’s silence in honour of their former player before playing Kidsgrove Athletic. Moore's family, including his wife of 21 years, Nicola, were at the game. Moore's former team-mates were also at the match to pay tribute as Halesowen supporters mourned his passing.

John Woodhouse, who captained the 1980s Vase side, said: "Neil was a very good player, one of the best we had at that time. He was also a smashing chap to know and got on really well with everyone."

Former team-mate Mark Penn, added: "Neil was one of the boys, a real character and was good in the dressing room. He was a great talent."

Donations are being collected in Moore’s memory for the intensive care unit at Russells Hall Hospital where he died. They can be made through funeral directors J.T Brookes & Co of Brierley Hill.