ONE of Worcestershire's long-est standing servants to football in the county has died.

Bert Powell, who passed away peacefully last Thursday, was a former chairman of Worcester and District Lea-gue and will be remembered for his loyal service to the game which earned him the Football Association's 50 years long service medal in November 1996.

The 79-year-old's long association with football began at the start of the Second World War when he registered with Gorse Hill Youth Club as a player, where he later became secretary.

During this period Powell was also a representative on the Sports Council and on the management committee of Gorse Hill Youth Club.

In 1948 he became a referee and carried on his officiating duties until taking up the post of secretary for Gorse Hill Seniors in 1957.

Four years later he was elected to the management committee of the Worcester and District League -- a position he held until his death.

Powell was also registration secretary (1962-69); vice- chairman (1969-73), chairman (1973-93) and in 1993 was made a life member of the league. He was also Worcester Area Junior Club representative on the Worcestershire Football Association Council from 1964-67.

Powell, who worked for both Archdales and Leyland, was a popular figure in Worcestershire football circles and Roy Northall, vice-chairman of the WFA, paid this tribute to his late colleague. "He was a solid, genuine bloke and if he could help you he would," said Northall.

"I took over the chairmanship of the Worcester and District League and he was always on hand for advice."

Powell, who was married to the late Mary, leaves children Bruce, Margaret and Martin.

The funeral service was due to take place at Worcester Crematorium today.