More than 300 people paid tribute to an ‘amazing’ man by taking part in a minute’s applause at a football match in Stotfold on Sunday.

The Comet: Hayley Syme with her dad Alan SymeHayley Syme with her dad Alan Syme (Image: Archant)

Dad-of-two and technical solutions director Alan Syme sadly passed away on December 15 at the age of 56 after a brain aneurysm – with hundreds also paying their respects at his funeral on Thursday.

Much-loved Alan also had a life-long association with Stotfold Juniors Football Club. The U18s youth team had a minute’s applause to honour him and thank him for everything he did for the club over two decades, while every other side had their scheduled matches postponed as a sign of respect.

His 29-year-old daughter Hayley – who is a teaching assistant at Purwell Primary School in Hitchin, as well as being principal and owner of Ambition Dance Academy – said: “Thank you to everyone who joined us to give this hero a fitting send off.

“We were incredibly touched to have had more than 300 people come and pay their respects – which shows what an amazing man he was and how many lives he touched.

“Dad would have loved the service and been so proud of everyone involved. It was such a touching tribute.”

Hayley also ran last year’s London Marathon to raise funds for the Royal Brompton and Harefield Hospitals Charity after Alan had a double lung transplant in 2012. Alan and his wife supported Hayley by lining the streets of London during the gruelling 26.2 mile run in April 2016.

Andy Bainbridge, vice chairman of Stotfold Juniors FC, said: “It was an amazing sight with more than 300 people – past and present players, parents, committee members, friends and family – standing for a minute’s applause to honour Alan.

“Alan, through his foresight, was the one who laid out the blueprint for the Juniors as we are today.

“He had held, at one time or another, all of the major roles in the club – his latest being as our club president.

“He was still one of our trustees and a life vice president. Alan still attended every presentation day and was there to support our team’s in cup finals.”

Modest Alan was also chairman of Stotfold Conservative Club, as well as being a member of Mensa.

Hayley added: “He was the cleverest man I know. Sleep tight dad, we will love you always.”

Donations will be divided equally between Addenbrooke’s, Lister and Harefield hospitals. For more visit www.memorygiving.com and search for Alan William Syme.