THE mum of teenager Louis Ross said her son has "left a legacy of friendship" as teams of his friends played a charity football match in his memory.

Speaking ahead of the game held at Wimborne Town FC's ground in Cowgrove Road on Thursday night, Penny Ross spoke of her pride in 17-year-old Louis, who died in a skiing accident in December 2015.

"It's very special and emotional and difficult to see them here without him," she said.

"He would have been right in the middle of it all."

Teams of teenagers led by managers Graeme Souness and Eddie Howe faced off to raise funds for the Louis Ross Foundation, established by Penny and husband John to support young people facing difficulties.

In its first year, the foundation raised more than £70,000 for causes including the Poole Young Carers, bereavement charity Mosaic and Sleepsafe, a project run by Faithworks Wessex that affords shelter and guidance to homeless people.

Penny said the foundation will "keep Louis's name alive".

"We really just hope that as many people as possible look into the foundation and find out more about it," she said.

Hundreds of people joined a round of applause in Louis's memory before the kick-off.

The young sportsman, who attended Canford School, played midfield for Sturminster Marshall FC, Holt United FC and Wimborne Town FC.

The Friends of Louis XI, led by manager Souness, wore blue shirts with 'Louis 10' on the back. Number 10 was the teenager's favourite shirt number.

Those playing for Wimborne and Holt XI, who were led out by Howe, wore red shirts with 'Ross 16' on the back as Louis wore the number 16 shirt when he played for Holt.

Penny said: "We're just overwhelmed.

"This could have been a humble game of football, but it's snowballed into something just wonderful.

"It's astonishing that both Graeme and Eddie have given their time to help us, and of course that Sky Sports commentator Gary Taphouse is our master of ceremonies."

Friends playing on both teams have also paid tribute to Louis, calling him "funny and kind", "energetic" and "talented".

Penny and John said their son was "compassionate, funny, loving and generous".

"Losing Louis, with his mischievous sense of fun, banter and beautiful warm smiles has left a void in our lives that will never be filled, but we're determined that some good must come out of his tragedy," they said.

"It was our absolute honour to be his mum and dad."

For more information about the Louis Ross Foundation, visit louisross.org