A football club today paid tribute to a popular player who has died following an alleged assault during a night out in York
James Hitchcock, from Cottingham in East Yorkshire, died from his injuries in hospital on Wednesday following an incident at York Station on Sunday night.
A man has been charged with murder, and is due in court today.
James was the goalkeeper for Barton Town FC, based at Barton-upon-Humber, the North Lincolnshire town near the Humber Bridge.
Barton Town chairman Mark Gregory said the club is “devastated”. James was a “popular but quiet” member of the first team and was very well liked by everyone.
He added: “James was Just a genuine, all round good guy. He is irreplaceable both as a friend and a player.
“All Barton Town FC games this weekend have been cancelled as a mark of respect.
“On behalf of the club, I would like to extend my condolences to James’s family and friends.”
In a tribute on its Facebook page today, the club said: “Barton Town FC are devastated to announce that, following a serious head injury, our first team goalkeeper James Hitchcock has passed away peacefully in hospital.
“Our heartfelt thoughts and prayers go out to his wife, April, their young son Freddie, his parents, family and friends.”
Fans paid their own tributes. “Very sad news Hitch was a great lad, he will be sadly missed by many.
“Heartfelt condolences to the whole family and friends,” said one.
Another described him as a “great guy and fantastic goalkeeper”, and a third said: “James, it is safe to say that from all at Barton Town FC we will never forget you.”
James previously played for Bridlington Town. The club posted this on Facebook: “It is with disbelief that the club has been made aware of the death of our much loved ex goalkeeper James Hitchcock in tragic circumstances.
“The word ‘devastated’ does not explain how we as a club feel at this time.
“‘Hitch’ will always be on our minds and in our hearts and our deepest condolences and thoughts and prayers go to April and Freddie and all the family.
“Hitch will be remembered before our home game on Boxing Day. RIP Keeps.”
Mckenzie Dicicco, 22, of Belgravia Gardens, Middlesbrough, has been charged with murder and affray and is due to appear at York Magistrates’ Court this afternoon.