Non-league football has mourned the passing of “legend” Wayne Mew, the former chairman of AFC Totton.

Wayne, who died after a battle with cancer at the age of 68, also spent time as reserve and youth team manager at Eastleigh FC, as well as enjoying spells at various clubs throughout the football pyramid, including: Bashley, Sholing, Romsey Town, and Winchester City.

In a tribute to the club’s former chairman, Paul Maiden AFC Totton’s honorary life president, said: “Wayne was a lovely guy who gave and earned respect in equal measure.

“We owe him a massive debt of gratitude; without the hard work and commitment of Wayne – and the dedicated team of staff and volunteers operating under his leadership – the historic successes recently enjoyed by the football club would not have been possible.”

AFC Totton’s vice-chairman, Dave Penny, was friends with Wayne for more than three decades, with the pair working together at five different clubs.

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Paying tribute to his long-time friend, Dave said: “The word legend gets thrown around easily these days, but Wayne Mew really was a legend of local football.

“To me personally, he was my partner-in-crime, a great friend and an irreplaceable member of the family. He will be sadly, sadly missed.”

In a statement on X on Wednesday afternoon, Eastleigh FC informed fans of Wayne’s passing.

A spokesperson for Eastleigh FC said: “It is with deep regret that we advise you of the passing of former youth and reserve team manager Wayne Mew, aged 68.

“Wayne managed the Suburban League side that the club had in the mid-2000’s, and assisted such players as Aaron Martin, Joe Maxwell, Brett Williams, and many others who have had long and distinguished careers within the local area. Our thoughts are with Wayne’s family and friends.”

Sholing FC also took to social media to pay tribute to Wayne, who had been an associate director at the club, stating he passed away after battling cancer.

In a statement, former Sholing FC manager, Dave Diaper, said: “Really sad to hear the news of Wayne’s passing.

“Although I knew him for over 40 years, I only had the pleasure of working with him for a year or so at Sholing. He was a top man and will be missed by everyone.”