A BEWDLEY Town Football Club ‘superfan’ who never missed a match has died.

Tony Chadbourne, who was affectionately known as Chaddy, had a passion for the game from a young age and became a fan of the Bewdley club after becoming too ill to play himself. He died on February 7, aged 77.

Mr Chadbourne, a former Brintons carpet weaver, was captain of the club when it was called the Bewdley Comrades.

His sister, Margaret Marlow, said: “His passion in life was always football. He was always interested in sport. His health deteriorated and then he put all of his energy into being the best supporter of Bewdley Town Football Club.

“He was always, always there for them. He didn’t miss any matches.

He was just their most ardent supporter.

“Football was his life for as long as I can remember. He’s been a superfan for Bewdley for a long time. He just loved Bewdley and loved supporting the club.”

She added: “He had a wicked sense of humour and just enjoyed being one of the lads.”

Craig Payton, joint manager of the club, said Mr Chadbourne was a “brilliant fan” and went to every game.

“His dream was to see Bewdley play in the FA Cup and he paid the £300 needed for the entrance fee to make sure we could,” Mr Payton added.

“He was a lovely lad and will be sorely missed. I know everyone at the club is deeply saddened by the news of his death.

“We send our sympathies to his family as they go through this difficult time.”