The Macron Northern Counties East Football League would like to send our deepest condolences to Handsworth and the family of John Ward after the news that he passed away on Wednesday.

John had been a major figure at the Ambers, working incredibly hard in a variety of roles over a number of decades to make the club what it is today, most recently as its chairman, as it became a proud member of our Premier Division.

A statement released by the Ambers said: "At this sad time, our thoughts and prayers are with John’s adoring wife Dale, his son and daughter Greg and Nicole, Greg’s partner Kim and his beautiful grandchildren, Amber and Clarke, and also with John’s wider family and his huge network of friends.

"John Ward has been instrumental in the progress of our club, both on and off the pitch, and his countless hours of dedicated work and support to the club and everyone around it for close on 40 years, is a truly remarkable contribution in the history of our club, helping to provide so much for so many.

"In the past two years, his contribution to the wider community has been recognised by the FA who awarded John the coveted Sir Bobby Moore Award, and more recently he received the BBC Make A Difference Award for services to the community.

"John was a giant of a man who steered away from the limelight, a man of few words who always said 'actions speak louder than words', and John’s dedicated actions on behalf of the club ensured Handsworth Junior Sporting Club are respected and revered on and off the pitch.

"In short, he laid the foundations that we proudly walk on today in Amber and Black.

"The overwhelming outpouring of admiration and sheer volume of messages of condolence for John from all walks of life in the past 24 hours, really does speak volumes of the man and his family who always supported his relentless hours of volunteering for our club for so many years.

"John battled cancer in the same way he took on every challenge, with dignity, tenacity and a quiet determination, and he remained a true inspiration even when battling his illness.

"Although John stood down as chairman a couple of years ago in order to concentrate on his health and his family, he has of course been very much a part of all aspects of the club until recent days."

Club Chairman Steve Holmes added: "We have lost a true gentleman, a selfless inspirational man who I was proud to call my dearest friend and mentor, a man who has guided Handsworth to where it is now.

"My thoughts and love are with Dale and the whole family.

"Love you John .... your dream WILL be delivered, and I know you are still with us every step of the way. Keep correcting me when needed; your support is invaluable and your spirit will be forever in mine and the club's heart.“

The club's statement continued: "To lose such an influential and inspirational man will be very difficult for everyone who knew John, but one thing for sure is that John will be looking down on the Amber Family, proud as punch at every ball that's kicked, every goal that's scored and every new, young player proudly wearing the Amber and Black shirt for the first time.

"John will take particular delight every day we swing open the gates of Oliver’s Mount to allow those who enter to share and enjoy his dream.

"John’s quiet determination, selfless dedication, help and support has touched everyone who met him, a level-headed and knowledgeable man who will be forever in our hearts.

"We at the club have a responsibility to carry on the legacy that John Ward has worked so hard to create ... that would make him so proud.

"Thank you Wardy for all you have done, fly safe our true friend. Love you Mr Chairman."