Chesterfield FC is getting behind a Chesterfield family's bid to help British troops abroad a year after their 18 year old son was killed by a bomb in Afghanistan.

Jane Ford, 50, of Newbold Chesterfield, is making a sponsored parachute jump with her daughter Emma in memory of son Ben, a Spireites fan. It takes place this Friday 5 September, the first anniversary of Ben's death, to raise funds for the Headley Court Defence Rehabilitation Centre in Surrey, which supports injured soldiers.

The Spireites have donated an autographed football, which the family intends auctioning off to raise extra funds for the cause.

Chesterfield manager Lee Richardson said: "We hope that local businesses feel able to get behind the Ford family appeal by making a donation for the signed ball."

The family is also appealing for everyone in the country to send parcels of 'creature comforts' to troops abroad. Jane said: "We want to make sure our troops are not forgotten and by sending a small gift to an unknown soldier will ensure they feel valued."

Ben Ford was a private serving with the 2nd Battalion, The Mercian Regiment, in Helmand Province when the vehicle he was in was blown up during a routine operation on September 5 last year. 

Ben had joined the army at 16 and was on his first overseas posting when he died.  Sister Emma, who is now also a serving soldier passed out recently in Harrogate, North Yorkshire, watched by proud parents Jane, 50, and dad Trevor, 55.  She is joining the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers.

Jane Ford said; "Ben was a Chesterfield fan so we really appreciate the support being shown by the football club to help our appeal."

Visit www.justgiving.com/trevorford to sponsor Jane and Emma or ring 01246 275066, mobile 07827 446 021, to make a bid for the autographed football.

Gift parcels can be delivered to the Armed Forces Careers Office on West Bars, Chesterfield or to Chesterfield FC.