FRIENDS and family of a Royal Marine killed during a tour of duty in Afghanistan will later this year mark the tenth anniversary of his tragic death.

Alec Lucas was a popular son of Peebles.

And ever since his tragic death in November 2008, the town has turned out in force to honour his memory at a fundraising football tournament.

Next weekend will be the tenth Alec Lucas Memorial Tournament with teams coming from all over the country yet again to play at Whitestone Park.

As well as remembering the father-of-one, the tournament has also helped raise over £130,000 for military and local football causes.

Alec's great passion, after his family, was football having played and supported many teams in and around Peebles and he was a great believer in youth sport.

Alec's father, Adrian, has been at the forefront of the memorial tournament and fundraising. he told us: "Since we started fundraising in Alec's memory we have raised £131,045.

"We couldn't have done this without the unwavering support of people in and around Peeblesshire."

Although the fundraising effort was scaled back two years ago, the football tournament and supporting activities still managed raise several thousand pounds last year.

And all monies raised next Saturday will go directly towards helping youth football in the area.

Adrian Lucas added: "Everyone is invited to come along and give their support on this very exciting and special day."

As well as the main 16-team seven-aside tournament competing for The Alec Lucas Memorial Trophy, there will also be a youth tournament and penalty kick competitions as well as a beer tent, catering from Gary Moore and Caldwells ice cream.

An accompanying Car Boot Sale will run throughout the day.

The Alec Lucas Memorial Football Tournament kicks off at 10am on Saturday, June 2.