by Keyan Milanian

kmilanian@thekmgroup.co.uk

Tragic river victim Sonny Pataria is to be remembered with a football match between police and youngsters from the teenager's youth group.

Popular Sonny died after falling into the River Medway while at a friend's wedding reception at Commissioner's House, Chatham's Historic Dockyard on February 11 last year. An inquest recorded a verdict of accidental death. He was three times over the legal drink-drive limit.

His death caused an outpouring of grief in Medway where he spent much time with family and friends, although he lived with dad Charlie in Northfleet. More than 600 people attended his funeral.

The teenager, who celebrated his 18th birthday days before the accident, was a member of the Woodlands Youth Centre in Gillingham and a midfielder with Spartac under-18s.

The 'Sonny P Trophy' will be held on February 13 at 10.30am at the centre in Woodlands Road, Gillingham.

A memorial garden has been established in the grounds at the club.

Local neighbourhood officer, PC Steve Seal said: "Sonny was a popular, active member of the youth club and his death still has a big impact on those who attend the club.

"The Woodlands team will be made up of young people from the centre, family, friends and a couple of Charlton Athletic coaches, who run football training at the centre on Thursday nights.

"Hopefully this will be an enjoyable, ongoing annual event, which will help to build the good relationship we already have with the centre and the young people in the area."

Soft drinks and after match food will be provided at the centre for players and family.