SHOCKED members of a football club have paid tribute to “Mr Turton FC” Ernie Charnock who has died following a short illness.

The 73-year-old club stalwart dedicated his life to its service, doing everything from washing kit and carrying out repairs to welcome visiting teams and players to the Thomason Fold ground.

Club chairman Peter Gray said volunteers and supporters are devastated by the retired painter and decorator’s loss.

“It has been a massive shock,” he said.

“I can’t comprehend the football club without Ernie being involved in it.

“I struggle to conceive what life will be like at the club without Ernie — it will be tough.”

Only three weeks ago Mr Gray was with Mr Charnock at a a meeting of the West Lancashire League when the pensioner was presented with an award for the best hospitality in the reserve division. “That was the best award that Ernie could win because it was a reflection of him. He was an old school proper gentleman with old school values,” said Mr Gray.

Mr Charnock, from Edgworth, was known for giving a warm welcome to visitors to the club, which he was associated with for 52 years and was previously instrumental in saving it from being wound up.

Over the years he has done virtually every job at the club and his sons, Simon and Stephen also played for the side.

"He was absolutely passionate and would do anything for anyone," said Mr Gray. "He used to tell me he had done every job apart from being chairman and driving a tractor."

Mr Charnock, who was married and a grandfather, died on Saturday. His funeral arrangements have yet to be announced and the club says it will plan a permanent memorial to him.