Tributes are being paid to Stuart Withers, who was knocked down and killed in an accident in Salisbury yesterday (22nd November) morning.
Stuart was well known in the local footballing community and acted as the Chairman of Shrewton United football club and Vice-Chairman of the Wiltshire Senior League.
Mr Withers had served on the Wiltshire League management committee since 1999 and was elected Vice-Chair in 2006, having previously been a player, manager and more recently Chairman of Shrewton United.
Shrewton United posted to their X/Twitter account yesterday evening, "Today is a sad day in the history of Shrewton United Football Club, after the devastating news of Club Chairman and long standing heart beat of Shrewton United Stuart Withers sadly passing away.
"Our thoughts are with the family and those closest to Stuart. After consulting Stu’s family, we have decided to continue with tomorrow’s fixture with our chairman at the forefront of our thoughts.
"We will do everything we can to put this club back on the map again, words can’t describe what you done for the village & this club & your legacy will live on for generations to come, from the bottom our our hearts, Thank you for everything Stuart."
Absolutely devastated😭
— ShrewtonUnited (@ShrewtonUnited) November 22, 2024
Today is a sad day in the history of Shrewton United Football Club, after the devastating news of Club Chairman and long standing heart beat of Shrewton United Stuart Withers sadly passing away.
Our thoughts are with the family and those closest to… pic.twitter.com/kUZ5R9w9y5
Other local football clubs added their condolences and sent their thoughts to Stuart's family in response.
Laverstock & Ford FC said, "So sorry to hear this news! Stuart really was Mr Shrewton many of our club knew him & his sides were some of the best in the area! We’re sure the club will continue to do him proud."
Bemerton Heath Harlequins added, "We are sorry to hear of the very sad news, and everyone at our club is thinking of Stuarts family and the Shrewton FC family at this very difficult time. Absolute club legend."