HOCKEY players have raised hundreds of pounds for Ardgowan Hospice as a tribute to a popular head teacher who sadly passed away recently at the age of 51.

Greenock mum-of-two Jill Jones, of Kilmacolm Primary, suffered from breast cancer and died at the hospice, surrounded by her family.

Her son, Scott, is 1st XI captain of Greenock Hockey Club, who held a special day of sponsored matches at Inverclyde Sports Centre in Largs as a tribute to his late mum.

Despite heavy showers and gale-force winds, many friends and families turned out to watch the club’s three teams in action.

Scott, 24, an accountant, said he was ‘overwhelmed’ by the support.

He said: “It really means a lot to our family. We would like to thank everyone who contributed to such a worthy cause.” Club spokesman Alan Martin said it was a very successful day in tribute to Jill.

He said: “We raised an impressive £447 for the hospice.

“Inverclyde Sports Centre were very generous in providing hot drinks at the side of the pitch for those watching, and parents and players donated home baking.” He added: “The teams took to the pitch wearing pink armbands as a mark of respect, but unfortunately the performances on the pitch couldn’t match the outstanding effort and support shown off it!” Alan said particular thanks should go to the weekend sponsor, Iain S Phillips Motor Engineer, and also to the visiting teams who donated to the cause — Giffnock, Stepps and Broomhill hockey clubs. Jill’s successful career spanned more than 30 years. She taught at Craigieknowes and Larkfield primaries, and was depute head at King’s Oak before taking up the head teacher’s post at Kilmacolm.

Anyone who would like to add to the donations can still do so by contacting the club through www.greenockhockeyclub.co.uk