The home of grassroots football in the county has opened a new building named in honour of a long-standing supporter of community sport.
Earlier this month, Hampshire Football Association unveiled the John Ward Suite at the Winklebury Football Complex on Winklebury Way, Basingstoke.
Association chairman John Ward has been involved in community football since 1953 when he organised friendly matches for Petersfield squad Buriton Lads FC.
He played for Ellisfield FC from 1963 to 1970 and served first as a committee member and later as chairman for the Basingstoke and district Saturday and Sunday leagues from 1967 to 1989.
He was elected chairman of Hampshire FA In 1997.
Mr Ward said: “I see this as not so much an honour for myself but for all those who work for football in Hampshire.”
Neil Cassar, chief executive of Hampshire FA, said: “John has been a fantastic servant of grassroots football in Hampshire.”
