Tributes paid to 'true gentleman' and Maltby Main FC stalwart Horace 'Lol' Henson

Described as "Maltby through and through," Lol was a talented footballer in his youth and a familiar and friendly face at Muglet Lane for many years, serving as club chairman from the early 1970s to 2000 and more latterly as president.

Along with his late brother Albert and the late Peter Kenny Snr, Lol was instrumental in resurrecting the club in the early 1970s and spent countless hours rebuilding and improving the ground for NCEL football. 

It was this work, rather than the team’s performance on the field, which gave the club their current Premier Division status.

Delivering the sad news, Main said: "The world has lost a true gentleman.

"Lol worshipped the football club and was loved by everyone who got involved.

"It’s people like this great man who have played a very important part in the club reaching and surpassing 100 years old. RIP my old friend."

Social media has been filled with tributes from individuals and clubs.

Jon Gray tweeted: "One of the best people I ever knew in football.  An absolutely gent, Maltby through and through and someone I feel honoured to have known, sleep well."

Paul Staniforth said: "Lost count of how many times this man would have walked into the changing rooms and said ‘3 points today lads’. Be sorely missed, people like this are the football clubs they attach themselves to."

Main chairman Wilf Race messaged: "Rest in peace my dear friend."

Maltby will hold a minute's applause in Lol's memory at Saturday's NCEL fixture at home to Thackley. 

Lol's family have thanked everyone for their "overwhelming, heartfelt" tributes.