A hockey player from Stretham has helped raise over £2,000 for a charity which aims to prevent male suicide by organising a six-a-side tournament involving teams from across the country.

Former City of Ely player Simon Webb helped raise the impressive sum for the Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM) in memory of his friend, Ravi Ghowry, who died last September following a long battle with depression.

Ravi was a keen hockey player himself - making appearances for Southampton University, Farnham and Reading - but was best known for his work as a photographer, working for England Hockey.

“When Ravi passed away, thousands of people were shocked,” Simon said.

“Facebook and Twitter lit up with glowing tributes and there was a sea of profile pictures with his iconic ‘RSKG’ watermark on them.

“I doubt Ravi knew the impact he had on so many lives. He would play in goal to help others enjoy their game, spend vast sums of his own money to support his club, organise events and join committees to ensure others participated.”

Ravi’s friends and former teammates gathered for the tournament in Southampton on May 27 and also held a charity raffle that included donations from Olympic gold medallist Sam Quek, Welsh senior international Rhodri Furlong, Adidas Hockey, Oakley Hockey, Water Gull Orchards, VeloVision Magazine and private donors.

“It was a lovely event in Southampton and it was great to see so many of Ravi’s friends and family fondly remembering his contribution to our sport,” Simon said.

“Thank you also to Wessex Clothing for their incredible efforts in designing and producing the shirts for the day. And to Wide Lane for allowing us to host the event.

“After we finished packing up we headed to Ravi’s favourite bar and continued to exchange tales of his great contribution to our sport.

“The aim of the event was to raise funds and awareness of CALM, as well as paying a fitting tribute to Ravi. Hopefully we achieved that.”

For more information on CALM, visit www.thecalmzone.net, and to donate, click here.