AFC Telford United were today making plans to pay tribute to the life and career of former great Jack Bentley, who died on Saturday.
Bentley was the record goalscorer for the former Telford United, and directors at the young club that replaced it after its demise in 2004 have already begun discussions to arrange a suitable tribute.
Director Dave Topping declared: “The club will be making an announcement as to how we’d like to recognise a gentleman of the game and an important part of our history.”
Topping passed on his condolences to Bentley’s son Jim, who also played for Telford, and the rest of his family.
“We’re absolutely distraught for Jim and his family that such a smashing guy as his dad has left us so early,” he added.
“He was always made more than welcome at the Bucks Head, and Jim will always be made most welcome as well.
“He was, without question, the best all-round striker that our club has seen at any time since its formation in the 19th century.
“He was a legend for young and old, and he will never be forgotten.”
Vice-chairman Wyn Pryce paid his own tribute to an “absolute star”.
“They were down here last season, and on the day we played Witton in the play-off final Lee (Carter, chairman) had a text off Jim,” he revealed.
“I’m sure Jack would have known about that, because that’s how they were as father and son. They were very fond of Telford and they were both Telford idols.”
Pryce has been a Telford fan for several decades, and recalls his days of watching the side when they were known as Wellington Town.
“I’ve watched Jack play many times and he was an absolute star,” he added.
“He was The Man for us. For heading the ball there was no-one like him. He was absolutely brilliant and I hardly know what to say because this has taken me by surprise.”
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