Peter did so much but here’s Steve’s top three

County League chairman Steve Nealgrove worked closely with Peter Bentley for many years and said his achievements were numerous.

But he picked out three, saying: “Peter loved a challenge and the way he fought to preserve the County League at its current level was inspirational. I told him not to overdo things but I think in some ways it was good for him as it gave him a focus.

“The formation of Division 3 in 1983 also has to be right up there with his list of achievements. It made us the first league in the country to have a pyramid structure within and the way Langney blossomed after their humble beginnings in that division was truly memorable.

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““When you think just how far they came, reaching the Conference and playing against some top clubs, it just shows what a debt we owe to him.

“I managed the Division 3 rep side for many years and so it is something that is also very close to my heart.

“The other thing right up there, although there are many, is the way he helped the Sussex FA secure funding for the new stand and other work at Culver Road.

“You probably have to ask what did he not do for football. He always tried to get the best for Sussex and the game in general.

“Sometimes he could be a little curt in his responses but he was always very professional and totally focused.

“He leaves a wonderful legacy and will be sadly missed by so many,”

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