Team honours founder who set up club with three pals

A man who was one of four teenagers who founded a successful non-league football team in Leicestershire has been honoured following his death.

John Williams formed Birstall United in 1961 with three of his friends when he was 16.

The former player, who died earlier this month at the age of 78, remained heavily involved in the club as it became more established and would watch them play every other Saturday at Meadow Lane.

Players and supporters took part in a minute's applause before the team's game against Dunkirk FC in the FA Vase on Saturday.

Mr Williams, who was known as "Mr Birstall United", first created the Sunday league side, playing friendlies on Birstall Park.

After winning three titles, the club took over a team based at Birstall Social Club, paving their way into Saturday football.

His son, David Williams, said: "I know that he was proud - he was involved in the club since the age of 16 - since he started it.

"His wedding ring's even in the foundations of the club house.

"He's always been heavily invested in the club."

Trevor Colver, who formed the club alongside his friend, said in their first season, the team won some games by up to 15 goals.

He also remembered when the club took over Meadow Lane - formerly a council-owned tip - games were often abandoned when old rubbish came up through the grass.

"One of the worst things we ever brought up was a car," he said.

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