FAMILY and friends of Leonard Marsh, the much-loved chairman of Swanage Town and Herston FC, were expected to pack his funeral service today.

Leonard, known as Lenny, passed away earlier this month, aged 68, after a protracted fight against cancer.

Paying tribute, friend and former Swanage manager Gerald Dimarco, said: "I've known Lenny about 40 years. I watched him play for Swanage in the '60s, and was lucky enough to play alongside him on my debut in the early '70s. I became the manager for the 2003/04 season with Lenny as chairman. He always gave me great support and encouragement, and his tireless work helped the club back into the Dorset Premier League."

Until his retirement a few years ago, Lenny also ran pleasure boats out of Swanage - a business that remains in the family.

Swanage Town and Herston FC vice-chairman, Mark Chadderton, said: "Lenny was an outstanding player. He'll be remembered as loyal, hardworking and someone who never liked the limelight. He just got on with the job, never seeing the bad in anyone, and encouraging others with his positive outlook.

"Everyone at Swanage Town and Herston extends their deepest sympathies to Lenny's wife Jenny as well as all his family."

As a mark of respect the club held a minute's silence and players donned black arm bands during their home game against Blandford United on Saturday.

Mr Dimarco said: "Even up to the last few weeks Lenny was so pleased to come with me to watch his beloved Swans. He never once complained about his health.

"Lenny always shunned the limelight and just got on with the job, and he never had a bad word about anyone, always seeing the best in people.

"Goodbye Lenny, you will be sorely missed, but never forgotten."

Lenny's funeral service will take place on Thursday at Swanage United Reformed Church at 2pm.