A sporting legend in Potton was laid to rest today (Thursday). St Mary s Church in the town was expected to be overflowing for the funeral of Derek Inskip who was associated with Potton United Football Club for over half a century. Bachelor Mr Inskip, who

A sporting legend in Potton was laid to rest today (Thursday).

St Mary's Church in the town was expected to be overflowing for the funeral of Derek Inskip who was associated with Potton United Football Club for over half a century.

Bachelor Mr Inskip, who lived in Sheffield Close, collapsed in Potton Market Square on January 14 three days before his 76th birthday. He later died in Bedford Hospital.

Potton players past and present were expected to be among the mourners at Mr Inskip's funeral as well as senior representatives from all the major leagues and clubs in the county.

"He was part of the fixtures and fittings at the club," said former club chairman Nigel Westhorp.

"A lot of players went through the club during his 50 years at United and they will be coming from far and wide to pay their last respects to a man who did so much for the club and who will be greatly missed by everyone."

Biggleswade United secretary Tracey James said: "Derek was a loved and cherished member of our football community.

"Yes, he could be cantankerous and belligerent but there can absolutely be no questioning his loyalty and devotion to Potton United."

Mr Inskip, who was known as Skip at The Hollow, was elected to Potton United committee in June 1953. After playing in goal he eventually helped run the reserve team.

Two years after joining the club he became secretary and in 1960 he also became treasurer and ran the Patrons' Club, a job he never relinquished.

He only released the secretarial reins at the end of last season.

An electrical engineer by trade, Mr Inskip's life-long work at the club was honoured in 2004 when the club's new stand was named The Derek Inskip Stand to mark his 50 years with the club.