TRIBUTES have poured in for a beloved Watchet man described as ‘one of the true characters of the town’.

Roy 'Wamsey' Williams was president of Watchet Football Club and passed away peacefully aged 86 on Monday, January 15 following a short illness.

Roy’s brother Peter Williams said Roy was a well-respected character and had been moved by the number of tributes that had come in. 

“We have had people pass on condolences and I know there have been a lot of people paying their respects on social media,” Mr Williams said.

Roy moved to Watchet aged 15 from Silverton, he undertook National Service before taking an apprenticeship with CJ Stone. He then went on to join the family business West Somerset Coal with his father and brother.

Roy was heavily involved in Watchet’s sporting success, playing for Watchet’s Football Club’s first team, before going on to captain the Reserves.

A multi-talented sportsman, Roy was also captain of Watchet Cricket Club’s 2nd XI as well as being a member of Skittles League committee.

He is pictured holding the Somerset Seniors Cup after Watchet Football Club won the league for the first time in 2016/2017.

Roy is survived by his wife Betty who he had been married for 65 years, his five children, 10 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

His daughter Belinda Bliss said: “He was a beloved character in Watchet and he will be sorely missed by his family and the many friends he had here."

One of Roy's friends, Chris Cooke, said: "I was sorry to hear about the passing of one of the most loved and funniest people in Watchet.

"Wamsy always made you laugh and feel good when you talked to him. He will be missed."

Roy’s funeral will take place on Monday, January 29 at Taunton Deane Crematorium at 11am. 

Donations for the MS Society can be sent to H Biffen & Sons Ltd, 32 Wembdon Road, Bridgwater. 

Call 01278 423333 for more.