Dursley FC are inviting people with links to the club and the community to join them in paying tribute to local hero Bernie Thomas.

Mr Thomas, who served as the club president, passed away peacefully in his sleep on November 30, after devoting many years to the club.

There is due to be silence at around 1.55pm before the game this weekend.

In a statement the club said: "It’s with our deepest sadness, on Saturday 30th November, our Club President, Bernie Thomas, passed away peacefully in his sleep, aged 75.

"The Club really is lost for words at this tough time, Bern’s devoted so many years to our beloved local Club and we all know we will never be able to replace his commitment, loyalty, passion for game and everything he’s done and was still doing week in week out for the Club.

"At request of the family and knowing what Bern would have wanted, the games went ahead on Saturday, I know how tough this was, but the passion and emotion shone through for Bern as all 3 teams won and came back with the points - You done Bern & the family proud, special mention to Berns Grandson, Sam Thomas, 16 years old and playing in front of your family, for your grandad, it really was a special moment for the team to also win at the end, we couldn’t help but to shed tears with you.

"Something we can take is that Bern was very proud of what had been achieved within last 18 months, both on and off the field, he reminded us of that weekly, he will RIP content in knowing that we will continue his legacy, we will deliver on his wishes and as a Club, we will always be forever thankful.

"This Saturday, 7th Dec, we will be having Club wide silence at the Rec, 1.55pm, priority to 1st team Cup game (2pm KO).

"All sections/teams are invited to attend to pay their respects. Ex players and general public also welcome, sports bar open following this."