WORCESTERSHIRE football, and the Malvern League in particular, has lost a stalwart with the death of its chairman, Norman Simmons, who died this week at the age of 70.

Norman served the Malvern League for over 50 years as a player, referee and administrator. He was presented with a gold medal by the Football Association in recognition of this achievement.

WFA chairman Ken Clifford, said: "Norman was a true stalwart of the association. He was always willing and able and worked on several committees. He was a keen supporter of county youth football and would always be happy to help out and follow the team around. He will be sadly missed."

Norman played football from the age of 14 and his career covered three decades.

In the 1960's he was a well known, competitive player with Twynning FC. When his playing career ended, the poacher became gamekeeper and Norman took up the whistle. He qualified in 1966 and by 1972 was a class one official. He became a much respected referee, taking charge of numerous local cup finals and top-of-the-table clashes.

He took an active part in the Malvern Referees Society. With the help of his wife, Christine, Norman's time as social secretary is fondly remembered. It was at this time that Christine began taking an active role herself and she was always to be seen supporting Norman in his various activities.

Injury brought an end to Norman's refereeing and he was invited to bring his experience to the Malvern League management committee. He became assistant to the then secretary, the late Bob Cole, and later became secretary in his own right when Bob moved up to the chairman's position. He remained as secretary until 1999, when he was elected chairman, the position he held until his death. During this time he also became secretary of the Worcester Infirmary Cup.

Norman was elected to the council of the Worcestershire Football Association in 1981. He became a vice president following his work on the discipline, county cups and referees committees. He also received the WFA award for long service in 2001.

The new football season starts on Sunday and teams will observe a minute's silence in Norman's memory before kick-off.