Milford United lost one of its most influential former players, thoughtful coach and terrific worker at Marble Hall for over half a century with the passing away of Brian Burgoyne at the age of 82.

‘Burgs’ was held in huge regard by football lovers around the county and beyond as they recall his skills as a talented half back in a Robins’ team that was hugely respected as he played alongside people who were to become legends of the club, like Firpo Hoggins,  Hugo Steer and Marwood Marchant - who took the team into the top clubs in the Welsh League’s first division for a number of years.

He was also remembered further afield because when his son Andrew was playing ‘up the line’ in a Welsh League game towards the end of his career when someone came up to him who had spotted his name on the programme and said,

“You boys had a cracking left half 40 years ago with that name – are you related to him?” and a very proud son was able to confirm that it was his dad!

When he eventually stepped down as a player, Brian stayed involved in a number of ways and when Andrew took over as manager he gave his help in taking them back into Division One.

Towards the end of his involvement, before he became ill, he was also working on the pitch, helping to keep the place neat and tidy by painting, climbing ladders and generally remaining as a great club man.

He has been unwell for a number of years since but such was his love for Milford United that he could still look at old black and white photos taken at Marble Hall and recognise the players’ names but could give Andrew details of their strengths and weakness as a great analyser of the game.

On a personal note, I can honestly say that ‘Burgs’ was one of the nicest men I ever met in local football, a tough opponent on the pitch but always a real gentleman who showed respect for opponents and everyone he encountered in his life.

Our thoughts go out at this side to his devoted wife Veronica and daughter Kay, plus sons Mark and Andrew.

He will be sadly missed and local football can ill afford to lose lovely characters like Brian Burgoyne.