'Margaret touched the lives of so many' - Little Common FC pay tribute to former secretary and club stalwart Margaret Cherry

Margaret had been an instrumental figure in the rise of the club after its formation in 1966, supporting her beloved husband Ken’s love of the game and his desire to provide football for the youth of the town.

Having moved to Bexhill in the early sixties, the iconic couple formed Albion United (the club’s previous name) and went on to build up an extensive and successful youth and adult set up for the local community.

Margaret was the club secretary for over thirty years and oversaw hundreds of local players pass through the club during this time.

Anyone who visited Little Common FC soon got to know Margaret, she was most at home making tea and coffee in the tea bar or pulling pints for the thirsty players after the match – she would also closely monitor that no-one was wearing dirty boots in the clubhouse!

Chairman Daniel Eldridge said: "Margaret worked tirelessly for the club and devoted her life to football, she organised and ran a successful club bingo evening for many years as well as raising money for various local charities. In the summer months she could be seen supporting the club’s stoolball team, once again providing teas and refreshments and would always be on hand to offer her support to anyone in any way that she could.

"In recent years, Margaret’s health had deteriorated and following a long battle with dementia she passed away peacefully on Monday evening with her daughter by her side. Margaret touched the lives of so many and will be sorely missed by her family and everyone at the club."

Other Sussex clubs and individuals replied to the Little Common's tweet announcing the sad news.

Westfield FC said: "Very sad news, all our condolences to family and friends x"

Bexhill United tweeted: "Our sincere condolences to everyone at Little Common at this sad time. Rest in peace Margaret."

Chris Steward said: "Many happy memories of days and nights in the little common club house with Margaret behind the bar. Margaret and Ken gave up so much of their time so countless people could enjoy playing sport, RIP Margaret x"

Lee Munden said: "So sorry. What a lovely lady she was. Will be greatly missed by all."

Jake Daniels said: "Margaret and Ken Cherry leave a fantastic community football legacy in the heart of our community and this will live on in the safest of hands with their grandsons. Rip Margaret back with your Ken.