Arthur Wimble died on October 12 at the Royal United Hospital, Bath, just a few days before his 87th birthday.

Mr Wimble was a well known figure in Chippenham having been secretary of Chippenham Town Football Club for 15 years until 1996.

Even after stepping down as secretary, he continued to visit the ground daily, cleaning changing rooms, tidying the pitch and chatting to his friends, until he was into his eighties.

The football club, which presented Mr Wimble with a special award for services to the club at its awards evening in 2012, has confirmed a minute’s silence will take place ahead of the next home game this Saturday.

His daughter, Gillian Smith, said: “My dad was a strong, intelligent and caring man who certainly made his mark in Chippenham.

“His recovery from serious ill health and the changes that brought to his life was an inspiration to me, my son and to many others who knew, respected and loved him.”

Mr Wimble, who was often seen around town on his bike, worked at Westinghouse Brake and Signal Company from the early 1970s until his retirement.

He was a resident at Seymour House since May 2013, which he made his home, enjoying the company of many visitors each week and will be sadly missed by friends, family, care home staff and residents.

Mr Wimble’s funeral will take place at Semington Crematorium on Friday October 24 at 11.30am.

Family flowers only please, but donations would be welcome, via E Wootten and Son funeral directors, with proceeds being shared between Seymour House and the RNLI.