THE football scene in Malvern lost a stalwart supporter this week with the death of Terry Cole, manager of West Malvern FC since 1970.

Mr Cole was honoured with a long-service award from the Football Association in 2003, for 50 years' service to the game as player and administrator.

His involvement with football started with appearances for Colwall Youth FC in 1952, and encompassed spells with Wells United, Malvern Town, Radar Rovers and other clubs.

He died on Tuesday afternoon following a battle with cancer.

Yesterday (Thursday), Mr Cole's daughter Laura recalled his devotion to West Malvern. She said: "His last game for West Malvern was in 2001 at the age of 65. Last week was the first time he ever missed a match. The week before he was out there, despite his illness."

Mr Cole was well-known to countless Malvern people through his role as a coupon collector for Littlewoods for 40 years, worked at RRE/DRA until his retirement in 2001, and was active in the union there.

He was also involved in the local rock 'n' roll scene, and had a long association with the Three Counties Show, He leaves a wife and two children. A funeral service will be held at Worcester Crematorium next Thursday, May 21, at 2.30pm, and his family says that all his friends are welcome.

Roy Northall, chairman of Worcestershire FA, said: "Terry was the epitome of a volunteer, who devoted his time not only to playing football, but organising the sport for others. He will be sorely missed."