Match in memory of Steven Bilton between York Dukes and MOB

Two of North Yorkshire’s long-running over-35s football sides, York Dukes FC and Malton Old Boys FC (The MOB) will play at The Young Guns Arena, home of Tadcaster Albion FC on Saturday, April 25.

The match is being played in memory of Steven Bilton, a family member of a York Dukes player. The winning team will lift the inaugural Steven Bilton Trophy, to be presented after the match by David Skaife, Mayor of York and North Yorkshire.

Dave Brown, organiser at York Dukes FC, said: “Steve was a much loved son, brother, uncle and friend to so many and a cornerstone of our team in York. Sadly he lost his battle with mental health last year.

“We’re proud to support Andy’s Man Club and the incredible work they do. This match is about more than football — it’s about raising awareness, encouraging conversations, and showing that no one has to struggle alone.”

Steve Mason of The MOB said: “For more than 13 years we’ve given over-35s the chance to play football against similar teams across the area, and I urge people to support this cause. Our community is impacted hugely; in the UK, suicide is one of the leading causes of death among men under 50. When you’ve been personally touched by tragedy, you realise how prevalent it is — even within your own peer group. One loss is simply too much.”

He added: “Veterans football provides a safe space for this age group to take part in sport for the benefit of both physical and mental health. Being in a team means you are not alone.”

In November 2025, the Mayor Skaife set out plans to build a more supportive and mentally healthy region as part of his £7 million Moving Forward programme, which includes a Men’s Mental Health Programme and the ‘Shift Your Focus’ behaviour-change campaign.

He said: “If we want things to change, we need to put support in the places men already feel comfortable — sports clubs, community groups and workplaces — rather than expecting people to step into a room and open up on day one. Helping men feel connected, even in small ways, is where change starts.”

All proceeds from the day will go to Andy’s Man Club, supporting its free, peer-to-peer groups across the UK where men can speak openly in a safe, non-judgemental space.

The day will include a half-time raffle, food and drink from the clubhouse, music before kick-off and a post-match trophy presentation by the Mayor. Kick-off: 11:00am Tickets are £3, with reduced entry for children under 10 and are available at: www.trybooking.com/uk/fiun