TRIBUTES have been paid to "a true friend and stalwart" of Wallasey & District Sunday League who has passed away.

Ken Triggs' long battle with illness finally ended on Tuesday evening (August 9) with his wife and immediate family by his side.

A spokesperson for the league said: "Our sincere condolences are expressed to wife Sue and his children and granddaughters Esme and Maisie, who Ken loved dearly.

"Both girls had a nickname for Ken. Esme called him P and Maisie liked chef, but both with good intent.

"Ken played for a number of teams and had much success when in goal for junior team Poulton Villa, before moving onto open age football.

"He really came to prominence when running the Rose & Crown FC for many years on a Sunday morning.

"Ken then had a massive influence at Vauxhall Motors FC as club secretary due to chairman Tony Woodley seeing Ken's drive, organisation and enthusiasm as vital part of the club.

"Ken always had the support of his family as his wife and children helped to put up nets, corner flags and the kit, before providing the after match refreshments back at the Rose & Crown on a Sunday and did similar work at Vauxhalls on a Saturday, as Sue, Emma, Kate and George ensured hospitality was ready before, during and after home fixtures."

Ken worked at Vauxhalls for many years and became a team leader before taking early retirement.

By this time Ken had joined the LMC and was providing his vast knowledge and experience to the league and became the voice of reason as chairman.

The spokesperson continued: "He could be described as forthright and even bullish to those who did not really know him, but he was studious and a deep thinker and provided a beneficial response to many matters discussed by the LMC.

"Ken will always be remembered for his quick wit, views on football - whether professional or amateur - and he enjoyed his horse racing and having a bet and of course having a few beers!

"Ken had another string to his bow, as a keen gardener, due to spending many hours at his allotment in Love Lane, with his produce being appreciated by many due to the quality of his workmanship.

"It is believed the time he spent as a youngster working in the market gardens and on a farm instigated his love for home produce. So his belief in hard work really came to fruition.

"As a member of the LMC Ken could be relied upon to attend meetings and provide valuable input on any issue, but this was due to his experience and ability to digest matters before actually providing a well balanced response to help with any decision making.

"As he fought against his prevailing illness, Ken would still make every effort to attend our monthly meetings and we all agreed that his desire for life was unquestionable.

"He was a very proud man and rarely asked for any support and without doubt will be missed by us all.

"Yet again, we send our deepest sympathies to all his family and close friends and assure you all that he will never be forgotten.

"Rest in Peace Ken Triggs - a true friend and stalwart of the league."

Funeral to take place on Monday, August 22 at 1.30pm in the church of St Nicholas, Bayswater Road, Wallasey.