Barton Town FC goalkeeper dies from ‘critical’ head harm after ‘assault’ on night time out – as man, 22, is charged with homicide

A Barton Town FC goalkeeper has died from a ‘serious’ head injury after an alleged attack on a night out, with police charging a man with murder.

His devastated football club paid a touching tribute to James Hitchcock, cancelling its weekend games out of respect for the teammate.

The married father-of-one, from Cottingham in East Yorkshire, died from his injuries in hospital yesterday afternoon.

He was hurt during an alleged attack at York’s railway station on Sunday.

Hitchcock, who was in his 30s, played for Barton Town FC and chairman Mark Gregory said the club was ‘devastated’, adding he was a ‘popular but quiet’ member of the first team.

Mckenzie Dicicco, 22, from Stockton-on-Tees, has been charged with murder and affray. He appeared at York Magistrates’ Court today and spoke to confirm his name and address but didn’t enter pleas to the charge. 

He also gave no indication as to plea in respect of a separate allegation of affray.

Barton Town’s senior men were due to play Silsden in the Northern Counties East Football League on Saturday.

Hitchcock joined Barton Town in May after being signed by manager Anthony Bowsley from Bridlington Town.

Barton Town FC goalkeeper James Hitchcock has died from a ‘serious’ head injury after an alleged attack on a night out

Barton Town FC posted on social media: ‘[We] are devastated to announce that following a serious head injury, our goalkeeper James Hitchcock has passed away peacefully in hospital’

His devastated football club paid a touching tribute, cancelling its weekend games out of respect for the teammate

The goalkeeper leaves behind a wife and his son, the club said

Barton Town FC posted on social media: ‘[We] are devastated to announce that following a serious head injury, our goalkeeper James Hitchcock has passed away peacefully in hospital.

‘Our heartfelt thoughts and prayers go out to his wife April, their young son Freddie, his parents, family and friends.

‘All the club’s games scheduled for this weekend will be postponed as a mark of respect.’

Tributes have poured in for the player since the announcement.

His former team Bridlington Town said: ‘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.

‘Hitch’ will always be on our minds and in our hearts and our deepest condolences and thoughts and prayers go to April and Freddie and all the family.

‘Hitch will be remembered before our home game on Boxing Day. RIP Keeps.’

One comment read: ‘This is horrific news – heart-wrenching and tragic. 

The Barton Town FC goalkeeper has died from a ‘serious’ head injury

The married father-of-one, from Cottingham in East Yorkshire, died from his injuries in hospital

Tributes have poured in for the player since the announcement

‘Wishing family, friends and all at the club love, strength and courage at these most cruel and difficult of times. #RIPJames – rest well and rest in peace.’

Other football clubs posted to send their condolences.

Barton Town’s rivals Pickering Town said: ‘The club wish to send our deepest condolences to the family of goalkeeper James Hitchcock, who passed away yesterday after tragic circumstances.

‘James was a very good opponent of ours over many years for many clubs and will be sadly missed by many players and supporters.’

Rossington Main FC: ‘Sending our thoughts and condolences to all of James’ family, friends and on behalf of Rossington Main.’

Another added: ‘Heartbreaking news. Everyone at Wakefield AFC sends our deepest condolences to everyone at Barton Town, and to all his friends and family. Rest in peace, James.’

‘Everyone at Eastleigh FC sends their deepest condolences to James’ family and friends during this incredibly difficult time,’ the Southampton-based team posted.

Magistrates sent the case to Leeds Crown Court where Mr Dicicco will appear tomorrow. He was remanded in custody until then.