FOOTBALL was yet again the winner on Saturday at the Alec Lucas Memorial Tournament in Peebles.

The annual festival at Whitestone Park commemorates Marine Alec Lucas as well as raising funds for causes that were close to his heart.

Alec, who was from Peebles, was killed in action during service in Afghanistan during 2008.

More than £130,000 has been raised for military and local football causes since the tournament in his memory was first staged.

And that total was added to again at the weekend as crowds came out to watch the day's action on the pitch.

Alec's father Adrian, who has been one of the driving forces behind the tournament, told us: "We had another very well supported day and we would like to thank all of the players and also everyone who came along to support us.

"We haven't yet got a final total for what was raised on the day but it will again go towards helping football in the area as well as the Marines charities."

Following a minute's silence to remember Alec, teams from in and around the Borders, as well as the Royal Marines and Chester, played for a place in the final.

Vale of Leithen saw their way past one of the select teams as well as Linton Hotspur and Tweeddale Rovers to reach the final.

Despite a spirited effort from Easthouses Lily in the final, it was Vale who triumphed 3-1 to retain the Alec Lucas Silver Trophy.

Player/manager Chris Anderson said: "We are delighted to retain the trophy as there were a few decent sides playing.

"The Alec Lucas Memorial Tournament means a lot to footballers in Peeblesshire - Alec played for a few local clubs and was well known and well liked.

"It means a lot to all of the Vale boys to have won his tournament."

Alec's daughter, Cara, presented the trophies and medals following Saturday's final.