KNUTSFORD FC are mourning the loss of one of their unsung heroes.

Dave Jenyons, who was a valued volunteer in helping to maintain and improve the club’s facilities, died on Sunday, January 24.

He was a stalwart of the club for many years and especially the 2010s when supporting his son Steve’s captaincy of the team’s most successful decade in the club’s 132-year history.

“As a fan and a volunteer Dave’s contribution was immense,” said Reds chairman Jimmy Evans.

“We will all miss him and send our sincere condolences to Jackie, Steve and Emma.”

Continuing to add that there are more important things than football, Evans revealed that during this third lockdown several club members have contracted the virus, Covid-19.

“It demonstrates the seriousness of the situation on a personal level – it hits home even harder, when you know individuals and their families who have contracted the virus and are very ill or have died with it,” said Evans.

And the Reds are making a stance in their belief that non-elite football leagues should remain cancelled until it is safe to resume.

“The club does not subscribe to the view that footballers should be exempt from the rules that govern the rest of the population and sincerely hope that this time the Government doesn’t ease current lockdown rules too early.”

A few Cheshire League teams played matches in December during the period of regional tier restrictions, but Knutsford were not among them.

Reds, who have played only two league games this season, were last in action in a 2-0 home win against Warrington side Greenalls Padgate St Oswalds on October 24.

But Evans highlighted that there would have been other factors leading to few games being played at Manchester Road even if Covid was not disrupting people’s lives.

“The weather (rain then snow) has been so bad during December and January that our regular ground maintenance has been impossible with the grounds permanently waterlogged and had there been any football, all games would have been called-off anyway due to the weather,” said Jimmy.

“This seems to be a consistent weather pattern and a winter break of at least two months (minimum) might be a way forward if/when ‘normal’ football resumes at amateur level.”

Knutsford FC have welcomed some council support regarding the lockdown.

“On the financial side, thanks to the support of Cheshire East’s Covid grants, our finances are okay and stable for now though we hope ‘normal service resumes’ for 2021-2022 season when fans can return, lapsed sponsors can return and our regular fundraising activities can recommence.

“In 2020 we secured a new main sponsor, ARH UK Ltd (Plant Hire & Machinery Rental), and have purchased a new ARH sponsored kit ready for when we start playing again.”