A charity football match will take place in Gloucester this weekend to honor the memory of Jordan Watts, a beloved 30-year-old football fan who passed away from bone cancer last month.
Jordan was diagnosed with sarcoma in September 2023 after enduring months of back pain. Originally from Gloucester, he began chemotherapy at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Birmingham, undergoing four rounds before a bout of pneumonia landed him in intensive care at Cheltenham General Hospital. After recovery, Jordan received Proton Beam Therapy at The Christie in Manchester and was declared cancer-free in December 2024 — a moment of immense joy.
Tragically, the cancer returned in May 2025. Despite his brave fight, Jordan’s health deteriorated rapidly, and he passed away last month at Sue Ryder Leckhampton Court Hospice, surrounded by family and loved ones.
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To celebrate Jordan’s life and raise funds for the hospice that cared for him, his family is organizing a special 90-minute charity football match tomorrow, July 25. The match will be held at Gloucester City Football Club, featuring players from Abbeymead Rovers, including Jordan’s brother Josh.
Gates open at 1:30 pm with kick-off at 3:00 pm. Tickets are £5 for adults and £2 for children. In addition to the match, there will be a charity raffle to support Sue Ryder’s palliative care and bereavement services.
Rebecca White, Jordan’s partner, described him as a passionate football lover and an incredible man. “He lived and breathed football — having played for Gloucester City Youth Club and always looking forward to matches like the World Cup. One of our highlights was visiting Chelsea FC’s Cobham Training Centre, a dream come true for him.”
Rebecca spoke warmly about the hospice care, saying, “Sue Ryder treated Jordan and our family with immense kindness and compassion. They made his final days comfortable and supported us throughout.”
Jordan’s brother Josh echoed these sentiments, sharing how much the hospice helped the family during such a difficult time. “Jordan was an amazing footballer and a wonderful person. This match is our way of celebrating him and supporting the charity that gave him such excellent care.”
The family invites the community to join this meaningful event, supporting a cause close to Jordan’s heart and ensuring his spirit lives on through this tribute.