TRIBUTES have been paid to one of the founding members of the Stourbridge and District Football League after his death last week.

Malcolm Lindsay, who lived in Halesowen, passed away in the early hours of June 13 after a short illness, at the age of 78.

Mr Lindsay was a key figure in the league's formation in 1974 and served in almost every role on its committee, including president and vice-chairman.

A statement from the league said: "Malcolm contributed actively to league affairs and has been particularly supportive of many of our recent initiatives around respect and development.

"Everyone at the SDYFL, and everyone who knew Malcolm through the SDYFL will miss his charm, pragmatism and sense of humour.

"We are making plans to ensure Malcolm is remembered at our opening games for the 2019/20 season."

There were six teams when Malcolm helped form the league 45 years ago and that has grown to almost 400, with 4,000 boys and girls now actively playing football in the SDYFL.

He became involved in youth football when his two sons, Andrew and Christopher, at a young age, asked if he could start a team.

In recognition of his longstanding volunteer work, Malcolm won the Dudley CVS Sporting Champion Award in 2017.

Malcolm was also a qualified referee and would often take charge of four matches in one weekend before his retirement in 2014.

His efforts also helped the league gain the Queen's Award for Voluntary Service, the highest award a voluntary group can receive in the UK.

One of the high points of his involvement came in 1983, when he was instrumental in the league being chosen to provide the ball boys at the FA Cup Final at Wembley between Manchester United and Brighton and again for the replay at Wembley five days later.

As a member of the local Referees Association, he also provided support and encouragement to newly-qualified referees.

The league's Facebook page was filled with tributes to Malcolm.

Emma Wilkinson wrote: "Such sad news. Malcolm was a lovely man - great sense of humour. Sympathy and condolences to Malcolm's family and SDYFL."

Neil Ruddock added: "Influential in thousands of children’s smiles on very many Sunday mornings. RIP."

And John Farley said: "Some people are irreplaceable. Malcolm is one them, over 40 years with so many memories his name will always be associated with SDYFL."