KATH Rickaby has officially stood down as secretary of Long Lee Juniors after serving the club for over 20 years.

She has seen many changes over the years but has not regretted a single moment as she has seen hundreds of kids develop at football.

Kath, who stepped down at the club's annual meeting, said: “I have loved every year at Long Lee and have had some really great times, which outweigh the difficult ones.

"Over the years as I look back with fond memories with the victories, defeats, trophies, presentations, etc, it has been hard work but enjoyable and have made many friends over my time with Long Lee.

"Although the club is not as big as it used to be, I believe it is now a good time to let someone else take over the role as it enters a new phase in its development. Hopefully we can rebuild following our successes over the years.

“At our peak, we had 20 teams and over 200 kids coming through the doors and I would like to thank everyone that has been involved at any stage over the past 20 years. It is with great sadness that I am leaving my role.”

Kath has been made a life member and will continue to be the club's welfare officer, as well as being on hand to offer guidance to new secretary Sally Kennedy.

Chairman Charlie Wysocki said: "We are all sad to see Kath leave but she has been a tremendous stalwart to the club and the district over the past 20 years and deserves every accolade she receives.

"She has worked tirelessly over the years, and not everyone appreciates how much time is needed to run a club, and all done voluntarily. It gave us great pleasure in awarding her life membership status along with a 20-year memento and flowers to mark the occasion.”