A FOOTBALLER and his wife who set up a charity in memory of their son are holding another charity ball to raise funds.

The Finlay Cooper Fund was set up by former Middlesbrough defender Colin Cooper and his wife, Julie, after the death of their two-year-old son.

Finlay died in a choking accident on the evening of Boro’s 2-0 FA Cup win over Manchester United in 2002.

The Finlay Cooper Fund has raised well over half a million pounds for children’s causes over the last 12 years but the family say they have no intention of resting on their laurels, as they prepare to host the fifth biannual Dragonfly Ball.

Now they’re asking businesses and individuals to back them once again ahead of the fundraising event, which will be held in the Grand Marquee at Wynyard Hall on Friday June 15.

“People come to the ball to support the fund but if we can give them a cracking night as well, with some good music, food and fantastic company, then that’s even better," said Mr Cooper.

  • Tickets cost £795 for a table of ten and include a drinks reception and live swinging sixties’ music, plus an auction.
  • For more information, email events@finlaycooperfund.co.uk