ONE of Mid Wales football's longest serving administrators has stepped down after nearly three decades in his post.

Paul Worts announced his decision to resign as secretary of the Mid Wales League South last week following 27 years of service.

However Worts looks likely to remain involved with the league as vice chairman with the final decision to be made by clubs at the annual meeting.

The Hundred House based official has been involved with football in the region for decades and enjoyed much success as manager of the now defunct Gladestry based Vale of Arrow club

Worts said: "I am proud to have been Mid Wales League South secretary for the last 27 seasons. I’ve had a good run and enjoyed it.

"My post as Mid Wales League referee appointment officer has ended due to the restructuring of Welsh football and with all the changes, it seems a good a time as any to take a step back from the day to day running of local football.”

Worts has held the post of Mid Wales League referee appointment officer for the past decade and for much of that time also served as secretary of the Mid Wales Youth League and Central Wales Football Association Competition secretary.

The long serving administrator added “I have been fortunate to have served under two excellent Mid Wales League South chairmen in Brian Bufton and Edward Parry who have basically let me get on with things.

"Also Phil Woosnam has been treasurer throughout that time and his expertise and guidance has been second to none."

"I would like to thank everyone for their help in the smooth running of the league – referees, sponsors, club secretaries and team managers, whose work often goes unnoticed, and wish everyone well for the future”

Tributes were led by Rhayader Town Football Club secretary Dai Davies who said club's owed the long serving official their gratitude.

Davies said: “Personally and on behalf of Rhayader Town Football Club we cannot thank Paul enough for all he has done for grassroots football in Mid Wales.

"How he stuck it so long is a testament to your love and passion for the game and Mid Wales football. All clubs in our area owe Paul a huge amount of gratitude and thanks for all his hard work”.