OKEHAMPTON Argyle Youth Football Club's night of celebration last Saturday was tinged with sadness at the announcement that chairman Gordon Alexander is to stand down from the post.

In the six years that Gordon has been at the helm, the youth section has gone from strength to strength in all areas. With a mix of gentle persuasion and self-example, he has put the club on a very firm footing with which to enter a new millennium.

Upon taking the chair, Gordon led the club forward and saw them expand from a mere three youth sides to the nine they presently field every weekend.

The time, effort and energy he has devoted to the cause has known no bounds and inspired people to follow his lead.

As importantly, his services and assistance were always available and only a phone call away. Many was the time when a team manager, stuck for transport, would ring and secure another driver. Often were the times that the chairman would take the role of referee's assistant on match days.

Over the years, Gordon must have managed nearly every age group, as temporary cover in the event of absence or illness.

Gordon's talents and generosity did not begin and end at the football club either. Just a couple of weeks ago, he was located at the sports field, line-marker in hand, preparing the site for the local Cubs' sports day. He has been one of the driving forces behind the football and rugby club's Neal Cousins Memorial Day which, in preparation and clearing up, takes somewhat longer.

Perhaps his greatest ability was in making everyone he met feel important and wanted. From the new player to the older spectator, Gordon was able to spend a moment with them and they would feel a part of the club. The committee and coaches knew they could rely on his support and advice, whether solicited or given discreetly.

But why all this talk in the past tense? Though the club has lost a truly great helmsman we still have a loving (and much-loved) friend.

There will always be a place, a role for people of Gordon's character and abilities and we are not about to let him escape that easily.

In closing, a word to Jill, his long-suffering wife. Thank you for allowing us to take him off here, there and everywhere. Thank you for fielding all those late phone calls. Thank you for all your time. If he gets under your feet too much, send him back to us!

With love from all at Okehampton

Football Club