WHEN Kenny Vallance first turned out for his local football side Folly Gate, the heroes of the day were the likes of Stanley Matthews and Tom Finney, but 45 years on, Kenny is still playing for the team, and last weekend celebrated his 60th birthday.

Kenny has achieved the remarkable landmark of playing league football into a sixth decade. He has been playing for Folly Gate for 45 years and has devoted much of his energy during that time to keeping the club going.

Kenny has been well known in local football circles for many years for the longevity of his playing days. His team-mates say he could have played at a higher level but chose to devote his energies to his local club.

Kenny started his career playing alongside his brothers in the late 1950s and was a quick and skilful left half who was known for scoring the odd goal or two.

As the years progressed he settled back into being a centre half, renowned for his hard tackling and enthusiasm for the game by opposing forwards and referees alike.

Despite the occasional broken nose, Kenny has managed to stay clear of major injuries and has always been able to keep himself fitter than many players decades younger than him.

The club celebrated Kenny's playing career and his devotion to the club at a special presentation at the Betty Cottle's on Saturday night.

Around 30 past and present players, as well as friends and family were there to see him presented with an engraved crystal football and framed photograph celebrating his times with Folly Gate.

Ironically, Kenny – the scourge of many a referee – was also presented with a gift from the Devon & Exeter Football League to commemorate the day . . . by a referee!

The club expressed thanks to Kenny for his amazing commitment – both on and off the pitch – for the past 45 years and congratulated him on his achievement.

This season also marks the 45th anniversary that Mike Chastey has been involved with and helped run the club – undoubtedly without both of these men the football club would have disappeared a long time ago and, again, the club voiced thanks to Mike.

Unfortunately, Kenny was unable to prevent Folly Gate from losing 6-2 against Lord's XI in their match on Saturday.

There has been talk of a retirement but whisper it quietly – Kenny to play until he is 70?