Tributes to Barton Town goalkeeper James Hitchcock after fatal assault at York station
Non-league football has united in tribute to a goalkeeper who died after an alleged attack at a railway station.
James Hitchcock suffered fatal head injuries in an incident at York station on Sunday night, 15 December. He died in hospital on Wednesday.
Mckenzie Dicicco, 22, of Harsley Road, Stockton-on-Tees, has been charged with murder and affray.
Hitchcock's current club, Barton Town, in northern Lincolnshire, said it was "devastated" to announce the news.
In a statement it expressed its "heartfelt thoughts and prayers" for his wife and young son and his wider family.
"All the club’s games scheduled for this weekend will be postponed as a mark of respect," it said.
Club chairman Mark Gregory said Hitchcok was a "popular but quiet" member of the first team.
He added: "James was Just a genuine, all round good guy. He is irreplaceable both as a friend and a player."
Other clubs joined the tributes to Hitchcock.
His former club Bridlington Town said in a statement: "It is with disbelief that the club has been made aware of the death of our much loved ex-goalkeeper James Hitchcock in tragic circumstances.
"The word ‘devastated’ does not explain how we as a club feel at this time."
Another former club, Beverley Town, described Hitchcock as "a fantastic goalkeeper and a loved teammate".
"He will always be remembered for his contributions to the team and his positivity," the club said.
Stocksbridge Park Steels added: "We join the rest of non-league football in passing on our thoughts and respects to anyone who was close to James."
The fans forum for Northern Counties East Football League, in which Barton play, released a statement paying tribute to Hitchcock's "dedication, talent, and sportsmanship".
It added: "His legacy will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him.
"Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with James’s family, friends, and the Barton Town FC community during this difficult time."
Mr Dicicco was due to appear at York Magistrates Court on Thursday.
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