VIC Ansell, who was secretary of Bishampton United in their days in the Cotswold and Stratford Alliance Leagues, died last Thursday.

The club was reformed in 1944 and Vic, who was known as "Bert" was an integral part of it up until he relinquished his duties in the early 1990s.

He was deservedly awarded a medal for his service to football, which marked his 50 years as secretary, by the Worcester-shire FA and a life membership of the Stratford Alliance.

Not only was he secretary, but was prepared to do all of the onerous tasks that go with running a local club.

He would willingly help anyone if he could, and offer advice when sought.

No one was more proud of the achievements of the club down the years, whether it was league titles or cups.

Equally, over the years, the games against rivals Littleton, Henley Forest, Rec Rovers, and more recently Inkberrow were also important to him, so that he could tease his long-standing friends when Bishampton won.

In recent years he would watch the games when possible, but if unable to attend would ring to find out the results - such was his continued interest.

The football club will never seem quite the same and much of the club has gone with his passing.