IT is with great sadness that we announce the death of Ken Montgomery who passed away on Sunday after a short illness.

Ken, who was 69, was the FWA's much-valued Executive Secretary for fourteen years having taken over the role from Pat Signy. He reluctantly stepped down from his duties during the summer when he became unwell.

As chief football writer of the Sunday Mirror in his prime years, Ken was a respected journalist with many friends in the game and beyond.

He will be greatly missed by his colleagues on the FWA National Committee and we extend our sincere condolances to his children Leanne and Nial and his grandchildren.

Current National FWA Chairman Steve Bates paid tribute to Ken saying:"The FWA will always appreciate Ken's tireless work in organising our major functions over the last decade and more.

"Ken was a great help to me and I know our previous chairmen all feel the same. Even though he was no longer 'on the road' Ken was still passionate about football - and making sure the FWA was at the forefront of the game. We will miss him."

The funeral details are as follows:

Tuesday November 23rd 1.30pm

Service and Cremation at Forest Park Cemetary Forest Road, Hainault, Essex, IG6 3HP.

Flowers welcomed but donations encouraged to St Francis Hospice and/or The Poppy Appeal c/o funeral directors H L Hawes and Sons, 106 Tanners Lane, Barkingside, Essex, 1G6 1QE.