GEORGE Vale has had a quarter of a century of devoted service to Witham Town recognised by a special award from the Ryman Isthmian League.

The Witham president has been involved with the club for more than four decades, with the award made for his service to the club during its 25 years playing in the Isthmian League.

Nick Robinson, the league’s chairman, was a special guest at Witham’s division north game against Aveley last weekend to make the presentation to George, watched by his wife Betty.

In his time following Witham, he said he has attended all bar just eight games – both home and away – and has held numerous roles with the club, including press officer, kit manager and now president.

The Town stalwart still loves being involved and his passion for the team hasn’t been diminished by the passing of time.

George said: “I enjoy every game as much now as I did when I first started coming and I can’t wait for the next one to come.

“I like being with all the players and supporters with all the teams and I’ve made some lovely friends over the years.

“In fact the only disappointing thing for me is that we don’t get more people from the town coming to support us at games.”

And the Witham legend is passing on his love of the club to a new generation in his family as his great grand-daughter, Grace, has started playing in the Witham Youth under-sevens team.