MORE than £6,500 was raised at a five-a-side tournament in aid of a foundation named in honour of Oxford United legend Joey Beauchamp.

The Joey Beauchamp Foundation was launched on February 19, two years after his death. Beauchamp died aged 50, with a coroner recording that the former winger took his own life.

The foundation aims to address the ‘pressing need for mental health support and awareness within our community’, by driving awareness campaigns, reducing stigma and encouraging help-seeking behaviour, while engaging with local organisations, schools and communities.

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A recent five-a-side tournament held at the U’s training ground saw £6,520 raised for the foundation.

Posting on social media, the foundation commented: “We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Planet Recruitment, particularly Graham Cole, for organising the inaugural five-a-side football tournament in support of the Joey Beauchamp Foundation.

“The event was a resounding success, raising £6,520 to further our efforts in promoting mental health awareness.

“Our sincere thanks go to all 24 participating teams, the spectators who braved the weather, Catering By Simon, The Black Swan, and the team from Oxford United in the Community.

“Your involvement is crucial to our mission of raising awareness and providing support for mental health.”

Widely regarded as one of United’s greatest ever players, he is currently 10th in the U’s appearances table and fifth in the club’s all-time goalscoring chart.

For more information about sponsoring, donating or organising an event in aid of the foundation, please email info@joeybeauchamp.org