Shropshire FA lead tributes to Tom Farmer

Mr Farmer, who was 83 and lived in Wellington, passed away at Telford's Princess Royal Hospital after being admitted on Friday. He had been suffering with cancer since March.

He found national fame for his part in awarding a three-match ban on Manchester United and England superstar Wayne Rooney for elbowing Porto defender Pepe in a friendly in August 2006.

But it's his 44-year service with the Shropshire FA that he is widely remembered for in county football circles.

In a lengthy tribute, Shropshire FA describe his "dedicated, loyal and pioneering service including 27 years as the chairman overseeing a remarkable transformation in the game at the grassroots."

A statement said: "Tom was an absolute legend of both the Shropshire FA and the FA. He has left a quite remarkable legacy and the football community will miss him deeply.

"Such was his contribution he was made an honorary member of the FA in 2007. We have the fondest memories of a great man."

Shropshire FA chairman Dave Ralphs said: "It's a sad loss. Tom put an awful lot into Shropshire football."

A player up to 1960, including Wellington Town, Farmer served on the Telford Combination League committee for more than 50 years, including chairman.

Taking up refereeing, he received the national referee meritorious award.

A magistrate, he worked at garden shed manufacturers Copelands in Shrewsbury for many years and later supervised prison inmates working in the community.

AFC Telford United today added in a statement: "Tom was an absolute legend. He was a regular in the boardroom at the Bucks Head, helping serve refreshments to guests.

"To became a very good friend to AFC Telford United and we will miss him. Our condolences go to his family."

The Bucks will hold a minute's silence before next Tuesday's home friendly against Walsall, in his memory and that of fan Rob Corbett, who also passed away recently.

Mr Farmer leaves his wife of 58 years Maureen, sons Gary and Ian and four grand-daughters.