POWYS and Shropshire football clubs have united in grief following the sad passing of one of the region’s most beloved officials last week.

Huw Williams passed away on Sunday aged 68 following a lifetime of service to his home village club of Llanrhaeadr which saw the Tanat Valley club climb the Welsh football pyramid from the amateur league to the second tier.

The village club host Radnor Valley on Saturday in the Ardal North East League when the much-respected clubman will be remembered by supporters and players.

Tributes have poured in for the much respected official whose life in the game ensured he was a well-known face in football circles across Wales and Shropshire.

A club statement said the club had lost a part of itself which would never be replaced and thanked all for their well wishes and tributes.

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A club spokesman said: “Huw had been our secretary for 21 years and he was a vice chairman prior to that. 

“He has had a colossal impact on our club. Wherever we went, Huw was the same character - happy, welcoming and would have the time to talk to anyone and everyone. 

“A part of our beloved football club is missing, one which can never be replaced. 

County Times: “The tributes we have received from the football world, show the standing he had in the game – what a great ambassador he was for Llan.”

Manager Michael Barton said the weekend would be a tough challenge with the entire community in mourning.

He said: “Saturday is going to be an emotional day for all concerned with the club. 

“Huw was a great guy who would do anything for you and always there with encouraging words when things were tough last season. He is going to be greatly missed.”

Football Association of Wales councillor Graham Evans also paid tribute.

He said: “Huw’s sudden passing was devastating news for all at this brilliantly run club where he was such an influential and loveable character. 

“All the tributes and #rememberHuw social media posts left by footballing friends across Central Wales and beyond epitomises what he meant to so many. 

“It’s both fitting and commendable that Radnor Valley have agreed to switch their match to the Theatre of Trees this weekend. 

"Whether visiting as a player, manager or FAW representative, Huw always made it a great welcome, discussing his passion of Llan, improving football in our area as well putting the world to right. 

“He’ll be sorely missed and thoughts go out to family, friends and all at the football club.”