TRIBUTES have been paid to ‘local legend’ and football club chairman Stuart Withers, who died after a crash on Exeter Street in Salisbury on Friday morning.

Mr Withers was the chairman of Shrewton United, vice-chairman of the Corsham Print Wiltshire Senior League and a cricketer for his village club.

Mr Withers previously played for and managed The Shrews, winning three Senior League titles and four Senior Cups during his spell in charge.

Police confirmed on Friday that a man in his 70s had died after a collision involving a pedestrian and a car, which took place shortly before 6am.

In a statement, Shrewton United said they were ‘absolutely devastated’ about the loss of the club’s ‘long-standing heartbeat’.

“Words can’t describe what you have done for the village and this club, and your legacy will live on for generations to come,” a club spokesperson said.

“Our thoughts are with the family and those closest to Stuart.”

Stuart had been a member of the Wiltshire Senior League’s committee since 1999 and took on the role of vice-chairman in 2006.

A league spokesperson said: “Stuart was a highly respected member of the football community in Wiltshire and all the Wiltshire Senior League were devastated by the news of his passing.

“All our thoughts are with [his wife] Maureen and the family at this difficult and sad time.”

Shrewton and Trowbridge Town held a minute’s silence before The Shrews' 3-1 win on Saturday, and the players wore black armbands as a mark of respect.

Mr Withers was also a popular member of Shrewton Cricket Club.

A cricket club spokesperson said: “Yesterday our village lost a legend.

“So many of Shrewton Cricket club shared many happy memories with you. we are deeply saddened and shocked by your passing.”

Other local sports clubs, including Salisbury FC and Amesbury Town, also shared their condolences on social media.

Flowers on Exeter StreetFlowers on Exeter Street (Image: Newsquest) Bunches of flowers have been placed on a lamp post on Exeter Street in his memory.

The road was closed between St Ann's Street and the Churchill Way roundabout for most of Friday as police officers carried out investigative work. No arrests have been made.

St Osmund’s Catholic Primary School on Exeter Street was closed for the day.

On Friday, a police spokesperson said: “A man in his 70s has sadly died following a road traffic collision in Salisbury city centre.

“The incident took place in Exeter Street shortly before 6am - involving a pedestrian who was near his van, and a car.

“The man’s next of kin have been informed and our thoughts are with them at this incredibly difficult time".

Shrewton United are hosting ‘A Day for Stu’ on Saturday (November 30) at The Shrew's home match against Melksham Town Reserves.

Former players, family members and friends are invited to attend The Recreation Ground for a 3pm kick-off. The bar will be open from 2pm.