A PERMANENT memorial to a 23-year-old killed in the Shoreham Airshow disaster has been created at his former football club. 

Mile Oak FC has placed a memorial stone to former goalie Matthew Grimstone at the entrance to the pitch. 

It was unveiled today (Saturday) ahead of the club's match against Steyning Town FC. 

Both teams joined Matthew's parents, other relatives and friends for a minute's silence and a minute's applause just before kick-off.

His family placed a bunch of roses on the stone, which reads: 'Matt 'Grimbles' Grimstone - Forever in our hearts'. 

Matthew played at Mile Oak for around five years before joining Worthing United as first-team goalie. 

He and Worthing United teammate Jacob Schilt, also 23, were on their way to play at a match when they and nine other men were killed by a Hawker Hunter jet from the airshow smashing into the road.  

Speaking at the ceremony today, Tony Burnett, from Mile Oak's committee, said: "We wanted to do this because he was such a lovely guy and he was a big part of the club.

"No-one would have a bad word to say about him or Jacob.

"There's huge sadness and a numb feeling. It's nice to have that permanent memorial."

Dave Shepard, from Steyning Town FC, said his team was proud to be part of the unveiling. 

He added: "Matt was well known to a number of our players. The football world is a small one and this had an impact on most of the clubs around here. 

"Our thoughts are with the family."

Matthew's uncle, David Maplesden, visiting from Washington DC, said the family hugely appreciated the memorial. 

He said: "Both Mile Oak and Worthing United have been extremely supportive.

"What I have found is that the footballing world very much looks after their own and they really did that for Matt and for Jacob. 

"It is really nice to do this and it means a lot to his mum and dad."

The stone was donated by Co-Op Funeral Care.