Club to remember Lydia Bennett
A minute's silence will be held ahead of Burton Albion's game this weekend to remember a player who suddenly died.Fans are being asked to honour the mark of respect for Lydia Bennett being organised by the Brewers before the game against Luton Town at the Pirelli Stadium on Saturday.
The 17-year-old was a Burton Albion ladies player and died suddenly at home earlier this month.
Her family will be at the game to take part in a show of remembrance for their daughter.
Adam Smallman, head of football for Burton Albion Ladies, said: "On behalf of everyone at the ladies football club. I would like to thank the supporters up and down the country and, of course, the excellent supporters of our family football club here at Burton Albion.
"Lydia was a football crazy 17-year-old who was always wanting to learn and progress as a player, always with a smile and a joke at training to keep her team mates smiling too.
"The 29th minute applause and songs during a recent game at Barnsley brought a tear to every player and staff member at Burton Albion Ladies as it has touched the hearts of everyone who knew her.
"Lydia maybe gone but her memory will never be forgotten – I ask you all, Brewers, Hatters and neutral fans to stand and support us this weekend in the 29th minute in remembering a young special footballer who was taken far too soon."
Lydia played in the no. 29 shirt.
Lydia Bennett died after being taken ill at home and family have said that she was a 'beautiful' young woman.
The 17-year-old, described as 'bubbly' by teammates, passed away just days after scoring her first goal for the club.
The teenager, described as a 'very popular and proud member' of the Brewers' family, had been planning a career in sports.
She lived in Tamworth and was up until very recently, part of the Burton Albion Community Trust's girls' football and education programme.
Nicola Mellor, female football lead at Burton Albion Community, said: "Lydia was a very bubbly person who was adored by every member of the girls football and education programme.
"Lydia always put 100 per cent effort into everything she did with the club."