TRIBUTES have been paid to former Halesowen Town player Neil Moore who has died aged 51.

The popular right back, who played for the side in the 1980s, passed away in Russells Hall Hospital last Thursday (October 4).

Neil was brought to The Grove by manager Paddy Page and played in the last of the team’s three Wembley FA Vase Finals, a 3-0 victory over Southall in May 1986.

Having made his debut in 1985, the father of two started 186 matches for The Yeltz, mainly at right back.

A statement on the club’s website said: “It is with deep regret that Halesowen Town Football Club hears of the passing away of our former player Neil Moore.

“He is fondly remembered by all supporters during that Wembley era.

“Our condolensces go to Neil's family and friends at this very sad time.”

John Woodhouse, who captained the Vase side, said: “Neil was a very good player - one of the best we had at that time and probably never really fulfilled what he was capable of.

“He was also a smashing chap to know and got on really well with everyone.”

Former team-mate Mark Penn, also paid tribute to Neil.

He said: “Neil was one of the boys, a real character and was good in the dressing room.

“As a player he really had the potential to play at a higher level. He was a great talent.”

A sales manager, who lived with his family in Brierley Hill, Neil was an avid sports fan and enjoyed watching football, cricket and boxing.

The Wolves and Arsenal supporter also went on to play for Halesowen Harriers and had continued playing football as a hobby.

His wife of 21 years Nicola said: “Neil really enjoyed his time at Halesowen Town.

“He made a lot of friends through football who he stayed in touch with.

“He was very popular and had lots of friends as well as a successful career in sales.”

Nicola said Neil was a “very proud father” to his two children, a girl aged 21 and an eighteen year old boy.

A cause of death has not been established as the results of a post mortem are still awaited. The funeral is to be arranged.

Donations are being collected in Neil’s memory for the intensive care unit at Russells Hall hospital. They can be made through J.T Brookes & Co funeral directors, Brierley Hill.