Two Stoke-on-Trent men have been charged over an alleged fundraising fraud connected with the death of a promising local footballer.

Thomas Chevin, 37, and Connor Hopwood, 27, both of Smallthorne, have each been charged with one count of fraud by false representation in relation to an alleged fraudulent fundraising event in May 2025.

Mr Chevin has also been charged with one count of fraud by abuse of position, and eight counts of alleged fraud by false representation, relating to coaching activities at a football club based in Newcastle-under-Lyme.

Staffordshire Police said both men have been released on conditional police bail ahead of a hearing due at North Staffordshire Justice Centre on Tuesday 3 February.

A 36-year-old woman, from Stoke-on-Trent, who was arrested on suspicion of fraud offences, has since been released with no further action to be taken.