He was outgoing, genuine and one of the lads, but also passionate about his job supporting people with autism.

Now friends of Glen Sanderson, who tragically went missing while swimming during a holiday in Australia, are organising a special tribute to raise funds for a cause close to his heart.

The 31-year-old Carlisle United fan, from Cockermouth, was lost at sea during a holiday to Sydney last October. His body has never been found.

Now his friends are organising a moving tribute, inspired by all of the things he loved, in his hometown this weekend.

The charity football tournament and family fun day is one of a series of events taking place as part of a special farewell, dubbed “The Year of the Glen Ra”– in honour of a nickname he’d had since childhood.

Having been brought up in Cockermouth, Glen had moved to Manchester to work as a carer for adults with autism but always maintained strong links with his Cumbrian friends.

A group of his colleagues are travelling up from Manchester for the event, with all funds raised going to the National Autistic Society. Others getting involved range from family members to old school friends, with both men and women signing up to take part in the six-a-side contest.

Taking place at Cockermouth Rugby Club at 2pm on Sunday, the fundraiser will feature football, a barbecue, bar and live music – all things he loved. The venue, looking out to the Cumbrian fells, further reflects his love of walking and the local area.

Good friend Nicky Gordon, who has known him for 27 years, is among the organisers.

He said: “He was very outgoing and a proper lad, but very genuine. Everyone liked him. He loved football, especially Carlisle United and England, and live music, always going to gigs and festivals.

“But he worked in care and was also a very caring guy. We knew he was very much into his job but I don’t think any of us realised just how much until after he died. All the stories that came out about him going that extra mile to help people. He was just a great guy.”

Although Glen’s life was cut tragically short, friends have taken some comfort from knowing he died at a high point of his life, at the end of a memorable holiday.

“You only have to look at his last Instagram posts. He was on a beach in Australia loving life,” added Nicky.

The charity event will also feature an auction of sports memorabilia, including signed Carlisle United shirt, Manchester United football and cricket shirt from Ben Stokes. There will also be a raffle, with many local businesses donating prizes.

Steven Birtwistle, another of Glen’s close friends, has also helped pull the event together.

He said: “Glen’s job was something he cared hugely about, going the extra mile to ensure the safety and wellbeing of people in his care. Since his tragic disappearance, we have been taken aback by the amount of stories proving his commitment and loyalty to people with autism.

“This event is an opportunity for us to continue to support a great cause which he cared so deeply about.”

Other events taking place this year have included a walk around Buttermere, where a bench has been erected in his memory, and a trip to watch his beloved Carlisle United.

There is still time to enter the football tournament. For more information visit The Year of the Glen Ra page set up on Facebook.