TRIBUTES have been paid to a community stalwart who has died after collapsing at a match.

Alan Lipscombe was involved in the Basingstoke football scene for over 50 years, playing since a young age for local teams including Queen Mary's Old Boys, Southern Electric Board (SEB), DCS, Bounty Inn, Stag and Hounds, Netley and Borough Sports.

Alan was a life vice president of the Basingstoke and District League for 33 years. He was chairman of the Saturday League for a number of years where he was an officer on all committees. He was an active member of the Cup Committee and ever-present at Cup Finals, often bringing his family along to help out.

He also served on the North Hants Divisional Football Association and received an award in 2004 for 20 years’ service to local football and remained as an active Honorary Life Vice President serving a total of 30 years. During this time he was again a dedicated member of the Cup Committee.

Alan was presented with the Hampshire Football Association 25 year Service to Football award in 2009 and Certificate of Commendation in 2019 for a further 10 years’ service to football. (see Photo of presentation)

In 2017, Alan received the prestigious Football Association 50 Year Award for his continuous involvement in football.

Tony Spencer, of Basingstoke and District Football League, said: "Alan was a stalwart of local football who will be sorely missed, not only as a friend and colleague to so many years but for his dedication and commitment to grass roots football.

"Alan will be dearly missed by everyone especially members of the BDFL. Our heartfelt thoughts go out to his wife Mary and family at this extremely sad time."