NORTHWICH Victoria chairman Brian Turner said club stalwart Dave Thomas' death will be felt throughout non-league football, such was his standing and popularity.

Long-standing secretary Dave Thomas, who had a six-decade association with Vics, died in Leighton Hospital on Saturday night after a short illness.

“In football, we talk a lot about legends – and mainly the players – but Dave was a legend in non-league football,” said Brian.

“I will remember Dave as a dear friend more than anything else, but all the tributes that have come in say a lot about him, his influence in football and sport in general.

“You couldn’t have asked for a better person in the roles he’s held at the Vics. I believe his first role was as general manager. He’s had various roles, but I think the one everyone recognises him for is club secretary.

“Whoever took him on at the beginning in the late 1970s must have known what they would be getting – and more! Vics were number one for him. That was his life.

“He was an active person within the club and on the committee, always giving guidance and always positive in his thoughts – including when the club has had some difficult days and he never gave up on it.”

During his life Dave was a season-ticket holder at Manchester United and a member at Lancashire Cricket Club.

“His knowledge in sport was tremendous,” said Brian.

“We’d talk about who should be the guest speaker at our sportsman’s evening and we always said that Dave would be the ideal candidate because of the experiences and stories he had, not just about what goes on on the pitch but what goes on behind the scenes too.”

A minute’s applause in memory of Dave will take place prior to Northwich Victoria’s home fixture with Vauxhall Motors at the U Lock It Stadium on Saturday, kick-off 3pm.

A club statement on Sunday night revealed the sad news.

“At 9.35pm this evening it’s with a heavy heart that our long serving secretary Dave Thomas sadly passed away as a result of his recent illness. Dave was surrounded by his loving family and vice chairman Ian Egerton and died peacefully,” it said.

“On behalf of all at Northwich Victoria FC, we offer our sincere condolences to his daughter, Sarah, son Stephen, and all his grandchildren. Our thoughts and prayers are with them at this time.”

As a mark of respect, last night’s home game against Longridge Town was postponed.

A special match programme honouring Dave and his work with the club is being produced for Saturday’s home clash with Vauxhall Motors.