Tributes paid to Brian and Judith Bradley

Brian Bradley (centre) being presented with an award by Trevor Cherry (left) and Allan Clarke (right) a few years agp

Tributes have been paid to Sheffield & Hallamshire FA life member Brian Bradley and his wife Judith after today’s tragic news.

The couple, who were aged 76 and 77, died after their car was involved in a collision on the M1 northbound carriage between Junction 33 for Rotherham and 34 for Meadowhall on Thursday afternoon.

They were very well known across the Non League and local football circuit in South Yorkshire.

Brian was a former referee as well as an ex Doncaster Rovers commentator for BBC Radio Sheffield.

He also wrote columns about local football for the Sheffield Telegraph, alongside holding various positions for the County FA.

He had only been made president of the H-K-L North Midlands Development Football League just last week in recognition of his ‘dedicated and relentless commitment to local football over the years’.

Sheffield & Hallamshire FA chairman Brian Jones said: “Our thoughts at this time go out to Brian and Judith’s family and close friends.

“Brian’s work with and in local football, particularly the County Senior League, over the years has been first class, everyone will also remember fondly his work in the past with Radio Sheffield and, of course, he reported on many local games for the local press.

“A sad day and time for all who knew Brian and Judy.”

Handsworth club secretary Dave Wragg said: “Brian helped and loved Handsworth Juniors. He used to work at Brown Bayleys and was over the moon when we took on their old sports ground at Oliver’s Mount.

“When we started with Senior football did all he could to help our club in starting in the County Senior league and then the U19 Northern Alliance

“He was delighted when we followed him to be founder members of the North Midlands U19 league.

“I personally will miss his 7.30 am calls as he always used to call me first thing as he knew I am usually up and about.”

A statement from Hallam said: “Brian was the expert on local Football and every club in the area will have had some contact with him over the years.

“A real gentleman and of course wherever Brian was, Judith was with him.

“It was always a real pleasure to have them both at Sandygate and it won’t seem the same to not hear Ann answering her phone at half and full time with “Hello Brian” for the result.

“A great loss for local Football and our thoughts are with Brian and Judith’s family and friends at this very sad time.”