ON WEDNESDAY evening Newport County AFC academy under-15s and Cheltenham Town observed a one minute silence in memory of Derek Fowle, who died on Monday.

The County youngsters went on to win the game 2-0 and dedicated the result to Mr Fowle, a well known figure in the sport in the area with many years service in the Newport Schools and Welsh Schools Football Associations.

He played a vital role in the formative years of Exiles players such as Mike Flynn, Byron Anthony, and more recently, Lee Evans.

County Junior Academy secretary Darren Broadribb said: “I know I speak for everyone within the academy that we were all saddened by the news.

“Derek was a fantastic character and was a real pleasure to get to know personally over the past five years.

“He will definitely be sadly missed and our thoughts are with his family and friends.

“Derek was an inspiration to all that knew him, giving up his free time for most of life to youth football.”

Newport and District Schools FA chief Keith James said; “Derek’s jovial character made him popular with the other Football League scouts who regularly attend schoolboy fixtures throughout Wales as they travelled about together.

“It was only recently because of illness that Derek was forced to give up his scouting role.

“However, he continued to work tirelessly behind the scenes for the benefit of Newport Schools who are now linked with Newport County Academy.

“He took on the role of welfare officer for Newport thus continuing his association with schoolboy football within Newport and the WSFA to the end.

“He was a truly dedicated supporter of schoolboy football who was well respected by his former players and will be greatly missed by all who knew him in the Welsh football family.”

Meanwhile, former Newport County defender Chris Marustik has also died at the age of 54 following illness.

Marustik played for County in the 1988-89 season after spells at Swansea City, Cardiff City and Barry Town.

He was part of the Swans side that won promotion to the top flight in 1981 under John Toshack and Marustik went on to win six caps for Wales.

"His loss is a such sad one," said Swansea coach Alan Curtis, a friend and former team-mate of Marustik.

Curtis told the Swansea website: "It's far too young, it's tragic. Chris was a big character, great company and a fantastic player.

"He was a big part of our team, a player you could always rely on. He was never overawed by the occasion, even playing in the old First Division against the big teams."