YOUNGSTERS at a North-East football club have planted a special remembrance tree in memory of footballers who lost their lives during the conflicts of the First World War.

Members of Middlesbrough Football Club's under 12s planted the tree at the club's training ground at Rockliffe Hall, in Hurworth, near Darlington, in memory of the six Middlesbrough players who died during the war.

The youngsters have been working on a diversity and inclusion project in memory of former professional footballer and British Army officer Walter Tull, who list his life during the war.

Tull, who was born in Folkestone of Afro-Caribbean decent, was only the third person of mixed heritage to play top-flight football in this country when he represented Tottenham Hotspur in 1909.

He was killed in action just nine years later during the First World War.

Premier League and EFL clubs across the country will plant trees at their stadiums and training grounds, serving as living legacies to the hundreds of footballers who served and died in the First World War.

Through For Club and Country, which is run in partnership with the Woodland Trust and the National Football Museum, The FA and England planted trees at St George’s Park in memory of the 14 England internationals who served in the First World War.

Speaking at the event, Gordon Cox said: "It is one of the most poignant times of the year for the nation and therefore it is one of the most poignant times of the year for football.

"Without those that we remember at this time of year, people wouldn't have the lives they have today.

"We are here to remember the fallen and those who gave their lives so we can live the lives we live today.

"When things don't go right, think back to the people who are a lot longer than you and think about what they did during the war and those who didn't come back."

Boro will recognise the Armistice Centenary as part of their Remembrance commemorations taking place for the visit of Wigan Athletic to the Riverside today

Supporters are asked to be in their seats in plenty of time for this match as the club pays its respects in the lead-up to kick-off at 3pm.