HAVING served Tavistock AFC for more than a quarter of a century Phil Lowe, its football secretary, has decided to stand down from his post.

Phil has been club secretary for two spells, between 1989-2004 and again in 2007-2015. He has also been Tavistock AFC under 18s joint manager between 1998-2000 and also Tavistock AFC veterans secretary/manager 2004-2015.

Before he came to Langsford Park Phil was secretary of Lamerton AFC between 1977 and 1989. It represents an impressive nearly four decades of serving local football.

Phil told Times Sport, tongue in cheek: 'All in all it has been a total of 38 years. I have enjoyed my time in football, making a lot of friends along the way and a few enemies!'

'I have enjoyed working with the various committee people at the club over the years and especially Derek Pethick, Richard Daw and Craig Smith who were there when I started at Tavistock AFC and were there when I finished.

'I wish the club every success in the future.'

Phil said he was proud to follow in the footsteps of both his grandfather Jimmy and his father Roger, who both served local football for many years.

Chris Fenner, the club chairman, was full of praise for Phil's substantial contribution to the club: 'Phil has not been in the best of health these past few months, and having seen out the full season whilst in visible discomfort with his leg, now has an opportunity to put his health first and get back on the road to recovery.

'During the past few years, arguably the most challenging period in our club's history, Phil has continued to tirelessly represent our club at home, on the road and as an officer of the South West Peninsula League and his efforts have been rewarded this year by one of the most successful seasons in the club's history.

'More loyal support of a club would be hard to find, so we know that this decision has not come easily to Phil.  As such, our players, managers, visitors, supporters and committee members all wish him the very best and look forward to seeing Phil fully recover and come back to Langsford Park to cheer on his beloved teams.  Not that we would begrudge him the odd Saturday off to enjoy being a grandfather away from the touchline — he's certainly earned it!'

The club also thanked Andrea Cawte, its welfare officer, in stepping forward and being promoted to take on duties as interim secretary.

This Saturday Phil is to be presented with a long service award by the Devon FA at a special ceremony at Elfordleigh.