A LOCAL legend in the sporting community and a well-known Football Association figure has died at the age of 91.

Percy Rushton died following a short illness yesterday morning (March 7).

Nichola Trigg, the chief executive at Worcestershire Football Association, said: “It is with great sadness that I am informing you that our former President and Life Member, Percy Rushton passed away peacefully this morning following a short illness, at the age of 91. His family were with him.

“A very dignified man who invested huge interest, time and knowledge to football both in Worcestershire and nationally, a legacy unlikely to be rivalled and he will be sorely missed.”

Speaking about Mr Rushton, Jeff Widdett, honorary referees’ appointments secretary for the Worcester and District Football League, said: “Percy was a very well-respected individual. We used to pull his leg and call him the ‘mayor of Warndon’ as he was very influential in the community.

“If you met him out, you would have to refer to him as ‘Mr Rushton’ unless you knew him well, then you would have the privilege of calling him Percy.

“If you wanted to know anything about football you would ask Percy and he would tell you. He had local football at his heart, and he promoted county football throughout his life.”

Mr Rushton, from Warndon, was a great supporter of grassroots football and was loyal to the Worcester and District Football League since 1955.

He became their honorary secretary and treasurer from 1961 to 1971 and made a life member in 1971. Mr Rushton was elected president of the league in 1987.

Mr Rushton served on the council of Worcestershire Football Association since 1959 and was the county secretary from 1971 until 1992. He was elected president in 1999.

Mr Rushton was appointed as a life vice-president of the national Football Association in 1999, first joining in 1974 and was a council representative for 29 years.