Arriving at the club as a youngster, "Kipper" as he was affectionately known, played for several seasons and then came on to the committee as an active volunteer. He also later did a stint as chairman too at Norton Lane before moving on to become the gateman.

When Hengrove won the County League just over a decade ago, John dealt with the planning applications that were subsequently made for the new stands and floodlights at the ground. He worked on the gate until two seasons ago when health issues meant he had to retire from active duties at the Lane. His final season was the 2016/17 campaign when the first team won promotion to the Toolstation Western League Premier Division.

Current chairman Mike Greatbanks said this morning "John was an absolute gentleman, a lovely chap. His hard work, dedication and commitment to the club was very well regarded in local football circles and he'd happily stand out on the gate in recent years, welcoming people to the club.

He will be sadly missed by all of us at Hengrove Athletic Football Club and we'd like to pass on our deepest condolences to all of his family at this very sad time.

John's grandson Lewis recently signed for the club and made his debut last Saturday as a sub against Chipping Sodbury, following that up with another appearance in yesterday's defeat to Bridport.

Once the details of the funeral service have been published, the club will publish these here on the website and also on social media.

RIP John. You will be missed by all who knew you.