Tributes paid to Rotherham Sunday League stalwart, Malcolm Gabbitas

Malcolm was a valued member and vice president of the Rotherham Sunday League committee and first started as a grassroots volunteer back in 1971.

He served clubs including Clifton, Domino and more latterly AFP as secretary.

A quaified First Aider, Malcolm was also a former referee.

The Sheffield County FA and Sunday League recently presented him with an award for more than 50 years' service to the game.

Sunday League secretary Mark Pilley said: "The word, legend, is used a lot these days but that description certainly applied to Malcolm in terms of local football.

"Malcolm was the oracle when it come to anything about the Rotherham Sunday League. Anything you needed to know, Malcolm knew it, and if it had not been for him I would not have become league secretary.

"He was a great servant to the league and to AFP. Their players never wanted for anything on a matchday thanks to Malcolm. Everything was taken care of.

"We send condolences to Malcolm's wife, Pam, and his family at this sad time."