Tributes paid after death of ex-Arsenal youth striker Vigar

The death of Chichester City FC player Billy Vigar has “completely sent the club in a spin”, say fans.

Former Arsenal academy striker Vigar sustained a “significant brain injury” during an away match at Wingate and Finchley FC last Saturday.

It is thought the injury was caused when he collided with a concrete wall, but the club has not confirmed this. The 21-year-old died on Thursday after several days in an induced coma.

Floral and card tributes to the Worthing-born footballer have been left at Chichester City’s ground.

A petition calling for a ban on brick walls around football pitches has received more than 4, 000 signatures.

Launched by Jack Mison, it states: “Billy’s passing is not an isolated incident—countless players at all levels have suffered serious injuries, including broken bones, concussions, and life-altering trauma, as a result of these dangerous barriers.

Michael Stemp, from Bognor Regis, says he supports the recently-launched petition.

” I think that’s very sensible, I think this is long overdue… a few years ago there was a player at Bath]Alex Fletcher] who was badly injured, “he said.

Luke Griggs, chief executive of brain injury charity Headway UK, said this” tragedy has to be the catalyst for further discussions “about how to mitigate the risk of such head injuries.

He said:” This is the second such incident in the last few years, with Alex Fletcher of Bath City experiencing career ending injuries through a similar incident…

“Lower league football or rugby clubs with small, traditional grounds cannot be expected to rebuild their stadiums overnight, but there must be more accessible, affordable ways to mitigate the risk of this kind of injury”.

Mr Wilson, who did not attend the game, added: “In a way I’m almost glad I wasn’t there… I can’t imagine what the players must be going through”.

Mr Stemp says he feels “very cut up” by Vigar’s death.

“It’s so sad for a youngster of only 21”, he added.

Wingate and Finchley, which has postponed its match against Canvey Island FC on Saturday, said everyone at the club is “deeply saddened” by the 21-year-old’s death.

“Our sincere condolences go out to Billy’s family, and to our friends at Chichester City FC at this incredibly difficult time”, the club posted on X.

Chichester City, whose match against Lewes on Saturday has also been postponed, posted: “Rest in peace Billy. Forever in the hearts of all at Chichester City Football Club”.