THE Acting Chairman of Crediton United has paid tribute to long-term club member Graham Avery (69), who tragically passed away on Friday, July 17.

Dave Blanchford said that Graham had been chairman and long-term committee member, as well as being groundsman for the past 10 years.

He continued: “It was very sudden news for all of us but mostly for Mary, our club secretary, his wife and his two children, Steve and Joanne, and partners, as well as three grandchildren, who he dearly loved.

“What with this virus and losing not only our chairman, we also lost Martin Edgington, our past chairman only two weeks before, when he stood down from the chair after five years through work commitments. So all-in-all what a time for the club – but we will survive.”

He continued: “Please when you read this, we are very short on our working committee, so if you are interested in football in the town, do what you can please and come and join us.

“I shall be caretaker chairman for the short-term, but if you feel you can help, please ring me on 01363 775440 and you will be made very welcome.

“I have been with the Club for 57 years this year so I must be doing something right.

“Twenty-four of those years was as chairman and now I am president as well. What an honour, oh and also a Life Member.”

A private cremation was held for Graham on Monday, August 3.

Before the ceremony, the cortege drove along Commercial Road, past Crediton Football Club’s ground, to enable Crediton United officers and players to pay their respects.

More than 100 people stood along the roadway and there was a round of applause for Graham as the cortege drove past.

Donations, if desired, in memory of Graham, can be made to Devon Air Ambulance Trust, c/o LeRoy Funerals, 94/95 High Street, Crediton EX17 3LB.