Wallasey Sunday Football League has shared sad news after a well-known amateur footballer lost his life in tragic circumstances.

Dava Finnigan began playing football in the junior leagues with Greenleas FC - who have written a fitting tribute to their ex-player and manager - before signing for the Black Horse in open age football.

He then joined the army, where he served in many countries including tours in Afghanistan. When leaving the army he returned to football life and eventually signed for JASGA FC and it didn't take him long to display his leadership qualities as he became captain, and no matter what position he played in, he gave 100% in every single fixture.

He led his team to a number of awards which included divisional league and cup success, plus the Magee and Dutchman cups and at all times displaying what amateur football is about - heart, strength, willingness to win and above all comradeship - because he was without doubt a fearless leader that gained respect and admiration from team mates and opponents alike.

Only last season he took on the roll of assistant manager next to good friends Will Armstrong and Pip Armstrong and was taking full control for the season coming before tragedy fell and this has been felt by all the team and the local football scene.

League Secretary Tom Potter said: "I personally grew up with his mum and uncles and knew his father from his playing days and regularly had battles with Rod Finnigan in his days at the all conquering Dale Inn and to say the adage 'like father like son' was an easy description for these two warriors on the football pitch.

"I remember his mum Gill telling me off because I called him Dave in one of our cup final programmes and the subsequent report and she insisted that he always be called Dava, so I did as requested (ordered) and will now miss the chance of repeating his name in my future reports.

"The heartfelt condolences from myself all the league are expressed to all his family and friends but especially his partner Lauren and the children during this emotional time.

"RIP Dava Finnigan - we will all miss you."

Dava's funeral will take place on Friday, July 30, at Claremont Church, Sandy Way, Wallasey at 1.30pm.