Tributes paid to West Pinchbeck man who volunteered at Spalding and Pinchbeck football clubs

Tributes have been paid to a West Pinchbeck dad-of-two who volunteered at matches involving two South Holland clubs.

Mervyn "Ogy" Lane, of West Pinchbeck, a familiar face at Spalding's Sir Halley Stewart Playing Field, passed away on Sunday at the age of 73.

Mr Lane was a matchday steward for both Spalding United and Pinchbeck United home games.

He played football for teams in Pode Hole and West Pinchbeck during the 1970s and was also a committee member of the Pinchbeck and District Darts League.

Mr Lane leaves a wife, two sons and a granddaughter.

Andy Gay, vice chairman of Spalding United, said: "Ogy was a great member of the backroom staff and I can't think of anyone who had a grievance against him.

"He was always there at the gate and always had a bit of banter with people as they came in.

"Ogy was just a top guy and he'll be sorely missed by a lot of people."

Gary Coomes, chairman of Pinchbeck United, said: "You sometimes meet people who will give you everything, without wanting anything, and Ogy would do anything for anyone.

"I've known him since I was six years old and Ogy always had a smile on his face.

"He just loved his sport, whether it was football, darts or cribbage."

Pete Boekestyn, a friend of Mr Lane's, said: "I joined Pode Hole Football Club in 1973 when I was 15 and Ogy was a player, linesman, trainer and first aid man there.

"He was a smashing chap and football was in his DNA , but by his own admission he was no George Best.

"Ogy was one of Spalding's football men through and through, a lovely man, and it's a seriously sad loss."

The two football clubs are hoping to organise a match in memory of Mr Lane once lockdown restrictions are lifted.

Lewis Thorogood, manager of Pinchbeck United and ex-manager of Spalding United, said: "Ogy was an advocate of all football in Spalding and he wanted to help out every Saturday, for Pinchbeck, as much as Spalding.

"It would be great to have a tribute match at the first opportunity and when it's safe to get supporters into the ground."