A CHARITY cricket match in memory of a 13-year-old boy who died of leukaemia is being held this week.

James O’Mara, of Claines, was diagnosed with aggressive form of leukaemia, Acute Myeloid, at Worcestershire Royal on June 1.

The Blessed Edward Oldcorne Catholic College student, who was a keen member of Droitwich Rugby Club, died just a week later on June 8.

The event, organised by James' rugby coach Jon Grimshaw, is being held at Ombersley Cricket Club, in Old Main Road, Ombersley, near Droitwich, on Thursday, July 20 at 6pm.

The match will raise funds for Birmingham Children's Hospital, Children's Liver Disease Charity (CLDF) and Bloodwise, a charity dedicated to funding research into all blood cancers including leukaemia.

His mother Becci, aged 33, said: "We really appreciate Jon arranging this cricket match in order to raise funds on James' behalf. The more we can help others will keep James' memory alive and will make something positive out of our tragedy."

The part-time sales assistant added: "Our hashtag on Facebook and twitter is now #HelpJamesHelpOthers which is our aim."

The event will have a bar, cake sale, barbecue, auction and a raffle.

Tickets cost £5 and are available at the venue on the day or in advance from The Mug Pub, Claines.

On Friday, July 14, James' school in Timberdine Avenue, Worcester, held a memorial mass and raised £400 for the chosen charities.

This will be added to his family's fundraising total, which currently stands at more than £2,500.

His family also put out an appeal for people to donate blood to honour James, as the youngster used 89 units of blood products during his time in hospital.

On Thursday, June 29, a service of remembrance for James saw more than 350 people fill Worcester Crematorium in Tintern Avenue.

For more information on James' story or to donate go to james.omara.muchloved.com.