Heartfelt tributes have been paid after the honorary vice president for Kings Langley FC died.

Alan Roberts, who was involved with the club for over 20 years, has passed away aged 67 after suffering heart failure.

The “funny, sociable and kind-hearted” dad was the youth team manager for six years and received the honorary vice president title for his work for the club.

Kings Langley will play 'Your Song' by Elton John, one of Alan's favourites, in his honour before today's match against Waltham Abbey.

Alan grew up in Bennetts End and was a well-known face in Kings Langley, where he lived for over 30 years. His wife Sian, 50, said “he will be missed by so many people”.

Watford Observer: Alan Roberts wearing his Spurs beanie on his 67th birthday earlier this year. (Credit: Roberts Family)Alan Roberts wearing his Spurs beanie on his 67th birthday earlier this year. (Credit: Roberts Family) (Image: The Roberts Family)

Derry Edgar, Kings Langley FC secretary, said: “I've known Alan as a friend and colleague for over 40 years and I know I speak for everyone at Kings Langley Football Club and the wider football community when I say the world is a poorer place for the parting of a man admired and respected by so many. 

“Alan's love and dedication to local football was second only to the love of his family. He was a huge influence on the football club's youth section, serving with unstinting commitment as both manager and fixtures secretary during the club's fledgling years. 

“I, and many others whose lives he touched so warmly, will miss him hugely as a true friend.”

Alan has two sons, Aaron, 37, and Declan, 30, with his first wife Pat, who died in 2002.

Watford Observer: Alan managed various football teams in Hertfordshire over his life. (Credit: Roberts Family)Alan managed various football teams in Hertfordshire over his life. (Credit: Roberts Family) (Image: Roberts Family)

He is also survived by his twin sister Wendy, and half brother Wayne, while his older sister Linda passed away in 2022. 

His family fondly recalls Alan’s passion for sport, including football, cricket and golf. A lifelong Spurs fan, Alan loved to tell people about the 1981 season when he went to every Tottenham match. 

Even in ill health, he was still keen to go to see his team play and Sian said “he always lived life to the full”.

He managed various youth football teams in Hertfordshire throughout his life and also worked as a shop floor assistant at Sainsbury's for over 15 years.

His family said the reaction from the community to his passing has been “amazing” and “can’t thank everyone enough for what people have said in cards and on Facebook”.