'Rest in peace, a special man' - Tributes paid to former Bexhill United chairman

Harrison was the Pirates chairman for six years before he handed the role to current incumbent Graham Cox.

And it was Cox who lead the tributes to the much-loved Harrison, who was diagnosed with cancer 18 months ago.

He said: “From our very first meetings I warmed to the then chairman, Bill Harrison.

“A kind and funny man, Bill would not say a bad word about anyone, always drawing on the good in people.

“His sense of humour and timing was that of someone you might expect to see on the television, catching me out on numerous occasions with his quick wit, I soon learned to watch what I said or done around him, in a good way.

“This taught me a lot and that was the thing with Bill over the next few years, he mentored me and finally made way for me to step into his shoes, they are indeed large shoes to fill.”

Bill was not shy at completing any task at the club, he worked tirelessly right up until he couldn’t to get the club to the right ground grading so that we could compete at the highest level and any job that needed doing he either done or rallied round to get done without breaking the bank.

Cox added: “We look around our club now and it is full of memories that Bill has left us, it was an honour to have known this great man and the thoughts of all of us at the club are now with his family at this difficult time.”

Other members of the club also paid tribute. Secretary Simon Dunne said: “Bill was a footballing man who pushed the club forward in a very short time.”

Kevin Sullivan, lead matchday coordinator, said: “He was a mentor, a confidant, an inspiration, a leader and a legend, football was in his veins. Both the club and the town have lost a great man.”

Vice-chairman Martin Johnson said: “Bill inspired me to take on my new role, and I hope I can in some way fill his boots and help carry on his work for the Club.”

And assistant bar manager said: “Bill was a giver to our Football Club.....he never looked to take...just give...rest in peace a special Man.”

Football clubs around Sussex also posted their tributes on twitter.

Shoreham FC posted: "Very sad to hear your news. Condolences from everyone at Shoreham."

Little Common FC said: "Condolences from us all at Little Common FC. Our thoughts and prayers are with Bill's family at this difficult time."