MORE than 500 people watched Shrewton United beat Melksham Reserves 3-0 on Saturday as the club paid tribute to former chairman Stuart Withers.

Mr Withers, 71, who previously played for and managed the Shrews, died at Salisbury District Hospital after a collision in Salisbury on Friday, November 22.

He had also served as the vice-chairman of the Corsham Print Wiltshire Senior League and had turned out for Shrewton Cricket Club.

Shrewton United held a ‘Day for Stu’ at the Recreation Ground on Saturday and had encouraged family members, friends and former players to attend the match.

Players from Shrewton United's 2001 teamPlayers from Shrewton United's 2001 team (Image: Spencer Mulholland) A minute's silence was held before the game, and Mr Withers' daughter and granddaughters came out with the players to place a wreath in club colours on the penalty spot.

Captain Jack Vallis then laid the wreath between the two dug-outs before kick-off.

A special matchday programme was produced that contained tributes and memories from those who played and managed the club alongside Mr Withers.

Read more: Tributes paid to ‘local legend’ who died after Exeter Street crash 

The Shrews ran out worthy winnersThe Shrews ran out worthy winners (Image: Spencer Mulholland) The Shrews ran out comfortable winners in their clash with Melksham thanks to two goals from Vallis and another from Alfie Pawlak-Walsh. 

A club spokesperson said: “A convincing win in front of a massive 512 people, which we believe is a Wiltshire Senior League record! Thank you to everyone who attended.

“That’s for you, Stuart.”