Hucknall sports pavilion officially renamed in memory of Jamie Brough

Mr Brough’s three children, alongside Coun David Walters, Ashfield Council chairman, unveiled a commemorative plaque to honour Mr Brough on the pavilion on Papplewick Green, as a result of his long-standing community work in Ashfield.

As well as council dignitaries and invited guests, the ceremony was also attended by Mr Brough’s wife, Karen and representatives from Sports Gateway.

A leading light in the Hucknall and Nottinghamshire sporting scene, particularly in football, Mr Brough’s death, aged 45, left everyone in shock.

He was the founder and driving force behind Sports Gateway in Hucknall, which runs football academies with Notts County and Alfreton Town, and led charity initiatives, such as providing meals for families struggling to make ends meet during school holidays and raising money for other sports clubs.

Coun Jason Zadrozny, council leader, said: “Jamie was a corporate partner of this council through his outstanding work with Sports Gateway across Hucknall.

“Like everybody, we were stunned by his sudden death and we are proud to name the pavilion on Papplewick Green after him.

“Everyone in Hucknall knew somebody whose life Jamie touched, whether that be the thousands of kids who actively participated in football and other sports.

"He encouraged people with disabilities and those who didn’t think sport was for them.

“He helped hundreds of children gain qualifications and positively changed their lives forever.

“Jamie was a community hero who made such a huge, positive difference to so many lives.”

Sports Gateway said: “Jamie had been working in sports for more than 20 years and was passionate about making sport accessible for all to improve opportunities and outcomes for young people in Hucknall and the wider area.

“Jamie was devoted to Sports Gateway, the staff and students, and saw them as an extension of his family. He will always be remembered for his tireless efforts and passion to make Sports Gateway a place where students can excel in sports and education.

“Jamie’s passion was to create an inclusive, enjoyable and inspiring environment, where all students are welcomed, encouraged and supported to be the best version of themselves.”