A man who has dedicated much of his life to his local rugby club is due to receive an award recognising his efforts from the Lord Mayor of Leicester.
John Goddard, of Birstall, has been a volunteer with Belgrave Rugby Club for more than 50 years.
The 71-year-old, who described himself as "Belgrave born and bred", is due to be presented with an Honoured Citizen Award by Councillor John Thomas at a ceremony in the Town Hall on
Wednesday.
He first became involved with the Thurcaston Road outfit in the early 1960s.
Now a life member and committee member for fundraising, he spent 22 years as club secretary.
The former hooker's roles have included player, captain, youth coach, manager, referee, vice-chairman, chairman and president.
John was nominated by Abbey Ward councillor Annette Byrne.
She said: "I've only known John for a year or so but I am hugely impressed by what he has done for the rugby club and the wider community.
"To be so involved as he has been for more than 50 years shows a great deal of commitment and true dedication.
"He is quite a humble man and called me a little so and so when he found out it was me who nominated him, but I don't care – I think he really deserves this recognition."
Behind the scenes, John was instrumental in the project to build the club's first clubhouse in the 1970s.
He also helped to raise £330,000 towards a brand new clubhouse , which opened in 1999.
In fact, the job of treasurer is the only one John hasn't held.
Commenting on his nomination for the award, he said: "It has come out of th blue, but I am more than happy.
"When the letter arrived through my door, I wondered what the hell was going on.
"But it's an absolute honour for me and I'd like to thank Annette for putting me forward."
Belgrave Rugby Club is the only amateur club in the city to own its own ground, where sport and functions are organised for all parts of the community, including schoolchildren.
John, who ran his own painting and decorating business until his retirement, said: "I love the sport of rugby, and love being involved with the club and the community.
"To have watched some of the youngsters come right through and end up representing the senior team has given me tremendous satisfaction.
"And it's also been a social thing for me, and my wife Pat. It's where all my best friends are."
Bruce Ord, who took over as club secretary from John 10 years ago, said: "I'm couldn't be more pleased for him. John is Mr Belgrave Rugby Club.
"He's the go-to person if ever we need any guidance or advice and is always there to help out – not just with the rugby but he supports everything we do at the club.
"An all round nice guy."
