Tributes paid to Mr Westfield

John Archer, whose association with the village football club is thought to have spanned more than 60 years, died last Thursday at the age of 86.

Joint first team manager Tony Harris said: “I for one will always remember John with affection and no matter what the result, he always had a kind word to share and a smile on his face.”

A very quick and skilful winger, John, pictured, played for Westfield until well into his 40s. He also held the posts of secretary and treasurer for both the football and football social club.

John was the youth team manager at one stage, and later became chairman and then president. He received an award from the Sussex County FA for more than 50 years’ service to football in Sussex.

Westfield vice-chairman Kevin Baker said: “John Archer was a very proud man. I am very proud to have known him, and along with the many others, I will miss him greatly. He was a sportsman and a perfect gentleman.”

Following the fire that destroyed Westfield’s clubhouse two years ago, John rallied round the community and within a few months the club was playing at home again - a measure of respect that long-standing local people had for him.

Bexhill United joint manager Jamie Podmore, a Westfield player for many years, said: “He always found time to speak to the younger players. He would always come up and say well done or give you advice. He was Mr Westfield basically and he will be greatly missed.”

His funeral will take place at Westfield Parish Church on Tuesday from 2.15pm. The full article will appear in Friday’s Battle and Hastings Observers.