This past weekend, we lost a true character and friend of Abertillery Excelsiors in Christopher Barnett, who tragically passed away on Monday, September 11th.

Barney was widely known in the community and within the football family, he was much loved and highly respected by his peers. He leaves behind wife Lesley and his son, Aaron.

Saturday afternoon, whilst playing the sport he loved with the people he loved, he collapsed and unfortunately passed away in hospital 48 hours later, despite the best efforts of his teammates and the emergency services who fought valiantly to save him.

In the wake of his passing, the club has received messages of love and support from football clubs and individuals all over South Wales. It has been nothing short of awe-inspiring and fantastic to see the wider football family pull together, something that we are hugely appreciative of. Now, we call on you all again to help show the legacy that Barney leaves behind.

It is our hope that people will donate whatever they can in memory of Barney, with all proceeds going to his family to help them with whatever they need the money for.  Every single penny will be supporting his family, who will no doubt need the love and support of everyone around them in this tragic, heartbreaking time.