A FOOTBALL-mad Worcester schoolboy who collapsed and died from a brain haemorrhage is to have a park dedicated to his memory.

Friends and family of 10-year-old Stephen Russell, who died in July, have clubbed together to unveil a plaque at Lansdowne Road Park, near to the youngster's Arboretum home.

Hundreds of people are expected at the ceremony tomorrow, including Worcester MP Mike Foster.

A cheque will also be presented to Acorns Children's Hospice.

"He was my son's best friend and lived opposite us," said Jayne Powell, who has organised the event.

"The park has recently been renovated, but Stephen died before it was finished.

"He was a lovely lad, everyone loved him. His death was so tragic."

Mrs Powell hopes some Worcester City Football Club players will be present at the dedication, which will take place at 4pm.

Members of Stephen's family are also expected to be present.

"We're hoping to let off some balloons and have a kickabout in the park," she said. "He loved football."

"It's a pleasure to be invited to perform duties like this," said Mr Foster.

"I hope the memory of Stephen will remain in the play area and that youngsters in the neighbourhood will benefit from the facilities."

The St George's CE Primary School pupil collapsed after complaining of a headache.

He was taken to Ronkswood Hospital and transferred to the intensive care unit at the Diana, Princess of Wales Hospital in Birmingham, where he underwent emergency surgery.

But three days later, on Sunday, July 16, his life support machine was switched off.

Stephen had asked for his organs to be donated should anything happen to him.

His kidneys and liver helped three other people to live.

The Everton fan, who has an older brother and sister, Dean, 18, and Emily, 14, was buried in the team's strip, which was donated by the club.

Worcester City Football Club also donated a signed team shirt.