Everyone at the NCEL is deeply shocked and saddened to learn of the passing of Barton Town goalkeeper James Hitchcock.

James had played in all of Barton's NCEL Premier Division and League Cup matches this season, including last Saturday's home game with Bottesford Town.

He died following an incident during a night out in York at the weekend and a man has been charged with murder and affray.

The announcement was made by Barton Town on Friday morning, saying: "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.

"All the club's games scheduled for this weekend will be postponed as a mark of respect."

Chairman Mark Gregory told the BBC: "The news of James' death has been hard to take in. It's horrible.

"James was a popular member of the club. We are all devastated. We are a very close-knit club."

Manager Anthony Bowsley added: "James was a lovely kid. Just a genuine, all round good guy.

"He is irreplaceable both as a friend and a player."

Barton's Premier Division game at Silsden AFC on Saturday has been postponed and the NCEL send our deepest condolences to the club, and to James' family and friends.