THE parents of a talented young goalkeeper who took his own life have welcomed a U-turn that allows his old shirt to be ‘retired’ in his memory.

Rushden and Diamonds has not used its number one jersey since its then-goalkeeper Dale Roberts, originally from Horden, east Durham, was found dead at home in Higham Ferrers, Northamptonshire, in December 2010, aged 24.

However, the club was promoted for this season and its new league, the Evo-Stik League Southern Division, insisted the number one must be worn.

More than 5,000 people signed an online petition calling for the decision to be reversed and the Football Association (FA) has now accepted an appeal, giving special dispensation for the shirt to be retired for the 2015-16 season.

Looking ahead, clubs will be consulted on whether a squad numbers system should be introduced for 2016-17.

Mr Roberts’ mother Isabel, 64, who had written a hard-hitting, emotional letter to the FA, said: “I wrote the letter to the men at the top and I am over the moon that the goalie can wear the number 17 shirt.

“There are rules but they are not laws and they can be changed. Our Dale is never going to be forgotten.

“When fans see the goalie wearing the number 17 shirt they ask why and Dale’s story is told. It helps others who have depression and if it saves just one life then it has done its job.

“Dale will be looking down and will have a smile from ear to ear.

“He always knew I was a fighter and he would be saying it was great news so it can be a reminder to help others who suffer from depression.”

The FA said it was an “extremely emotive case” and noted both sides were “prepared to work together to achieve a satisfactory outcome”.

Rushden and Diamonds thanked the League and the FA “for their willingness to work together to honour Dale’s memory”, all who supported the appeal and Mr Roberts’ parents Isabel and George for their support “during this difficult time”.

Dale Roberts was a close friend of Sunderland and former Middlesbrough star Adam Johnson.

A Dale Roberts Memorial Cup Match is held in his memory each year.