A MAN described as a ‘club legend’ and former Rhyl FC groundsman has died.

George James, who died on September 16, spent virtually his lifetime with Rhyl Football Club and then as the groundsman. There is a stand named after him at Belle Vue, which is opposite the main stand.

George tended to the hallowed Belle Vue turf.

Paying tribute, Peter Parry, ex player and chairman during the early 2000s, said: “I am proud to have considered George a dear friend of many years.

"The first time I met George was as a 14 year old turning up at Belle Vue, having been invited by the then manager Dick Jones to join training. I remember his booming words as I walked into the ground while he was mixing cement ‘can I help you son?’. When I nervously explained why I was there, he showed me where to go. From that day who would have thought that our association would be what is was.

“When I came back to the club as chairman in the early 2000s George was still at the club.

“He was always there through the ups and downs at Rhyl Football Club. People may not know but he did so much work for Rhyl FC and never charged a penny.

“ I will never forget George as a character and knowledgeable football man and I am proud of him and all his advice and significant contributions over the years.

“He was a good man and a good friend.

“My thoughts are with his widow Carol, who has been by his side for so many years”.

The old club that George was associated with was Rhyl FC.

The new Phoenix club is called CPD Y Rhyl 1879 and it was formed only last year.

Tom Jamieson, CPD Y Rhyl 1879’s chairman and former Rhyl FC director, said: “George will be remembered by many at the former Rhyl FC as more than a legend, his personal devotion to the football club and many improvement projects that he did at the stadium which is still there today for everyone to see and continue to enjoy.

"Many of our supporters at the new club CPD Y Rhyl 1879 remember George fondly as a true gentleman who loved his football.

“George will be sadly missed by so many people he came into contact with at Belle Vue.

“Our heartfelt condolences goes out to George’s family and friends.”

George moved to Rhyl with his parents when he was about 11 or 12 years old from Wolverhampton.

In a Journal report, in 2011, he commented: "The first thing I did when I arrived was find the football ground."