THE Llandyrnog and District Summer League is mourning the death of another stalwart.

Former league chairman and secretary Alan Bridson sadly died last week.

Mr Bridson was synonymous with the Ysceifiog for many years and he proudly looked on during the club's double-winning season in 2008.

Ysceifiog manager Tony Doyle said: "Alan was there for a long time as the chairman of the Summer League and Ysceifiog as well.

"Ysceifiog folded a few years ago and it was Alan who got the team up and running again.

"If it wasn't for Alan, we wouldn't have a team."

Ysceifiog will retire the number two shirt in memory of Mr Bridson and the jersey will hang in the Fox Inn, in Ysceifiog.

A minute's applause will be held ahead of the match with Llanrhaeadr this evening (Monday), while last Thursday's games were preceded by a minute's silence.

"It shows how he was valued," added Mr Doyle.

"He has done a lot for the whole league."

Summer League treasurer John Roberts said: "With the loss of Alan, the Summer League has lost another one of its stalwarts.

"Alan joined the committee initially as a club representative soon after Ysceifiog joined the league.

"Over the years, he served as a fixture secretary, league secretary and chairman.

"His knowledge of the constitution and club boundaries was encyclopedic.

"He was highly respected by all the clubs who appreciated his depth of knowledge and support over the years."

Joint-Llanrhaeadr manager Martin Baldry described Mr Bridson as a "true stalwart".

He said: "Alan was 'Summer League' through and through - a true stalwart who cared deeply about preserving the values and principles of the league.

"His 'northern' open, honest and straight talking approach to life made him a very likeable man who I was always pleased to see.

"On behalf of everyone at CPD Llanrhaeadr, our sympathies go to all Alan's family and friends.

Tributes poured in from other Summer League clubs.

Llanfair FC tweeted: "We'd like to pass our condolences to the family of Alan Bridson, to Ysceifiog FC and also to his friends and the community who thought so much of him.

"His work and commitment over the years were crucial to the Summer League.

"Diolch Alan."

Caerwys FC tweeted: "All at Caerwys FC are saddened to hear the news that Alan Bridson has passed away.

"He made a big contribution to Summer League and Ysceifiog FC over many years.

"Our thoughts are with Alan Bridson's family and friends at this difficult time."