Dronfield Town are sad to announce the passing away of stalwart supporter Ian Marples.

Ian was a dedicated follower of local football teams on Stonelow Playing Fields and, more recently, at Gosforth Fields.

For nearly fifty years Ian followed Dronfield Contact, Dronfield Contact 77 and Dronfield Town.

He also held the post of secretary for Dronfield Contact for over 25 years and served on the Hope Valley League football management committee in positions such as league secretary, league registrar and referees secretary.

A club spokesperson said: "Ian could often be found around Dronfield reminiscing with people who used to play for the various clubs about football.

"You could also find him at many away game if he could get to it easy enough. The last game I saw Ian at was away at Worsbrough Bridge Athletic on the day the team ensured their status in the NCEL for another season.

"Ian will be greatly missed at Dronfield Town fixtures, especially for his time keeping. If you were stood near Ian he always knew how long was left.

"He will be sadly missed by all connected to the club and local football."

Everyone at the NCEL would like to offer our condolences to Ian's family and friends as well as to Dronfield Town for their loss.