Soldiers training Ukrainian fighters for the frontline have paid tribute to one of their comrades in a football match in Norwich.

The Coleman Cup, named after Sargeant Jamie Coleman who took his own life last year, saw the sergeants and corporals of the British Army’s 4th Battalion, Royal Regiment of Scotland take each other on, with the sergeants winning 1-0 on Monday.

Teams were led onto the pitch at The Nest, in Hellesdon, by a piper from the regiment playing ‘Scotland the Brave’, with former head of the army Lord Dannatt and the battalion's commanding officer Lieutenant Colonel Gordon Muir among more than 100 in attendance.

Eastern Daily Press: The teams gather at The NestThe teams gather at The Nest (Image: Norwich City Community Sports Foundation)

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The regiment, known as the Highlanders, is currently based at Stanta (Stanford Training Area), near Thetford, where one of the group, who is a member of the Forces2Canaries Norwich City supporters group, recommended The Nest as the match venue.

The Coleman Cup was presented to the winning sergeants' team by Jamie’s mother Fay Darroch and his sister Saskia Blacklock, both of North Ayrshire in Scotland. 

Eastern Daily Press: The sergeants in blue against the corporals in orangeThe sergeants in blue against the corporals in orange (Image: Norwich City Community Sports Foundation)

Warrant officer George Lees, who organised the event, said it was the perfect way to commemorate their friend.

He said: “Tonight has been superb, this is exactly what Jamie would have wanted, his mates playing football, having a good laugh and having a good time.

Eastern Daily Press: Sergeant Lee Eager raises the Coleman Cup as Sergeant Jamie Coleman's mother and sister look onSergeant Lee Eager raises the Coleman Cup as Sergeant Jamie Coleman's mother and sister look on (Image: Norwich City Community Sports Foundation)

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"It was absolutely fantastic, and it was good to see Jamie’s family here as well.”

Jackie Thornton, head of strategy and development at The Nest, said: "It was a pleasure for The Nest to host the inaugural Coleman Cup and welcome so many serving personnel and veterans.

Eastern Daily Press: Sergeant Gary Cook scores the winning goalSergeant Gary Cook scores the winning goal (Image: Norwich City Community Sports Foundation)

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"The game was played in great spirits but a great opportunity for everyone to remember Sergeant Jamie Coleman.

"We hope to welcome them back again in the future.” 

  • If you need mental health support, call NHS 111 and select option 2 or the Samaritans on 116 123. Both services are available 24 hours, 7 days a week. You can also download the Stay Alive app on Apple & Android.