THE amateur football community has been paying tribute to a "club legend" who was found dead at his home after suffering a blow to the head.

Richard Percival, a former footballer with Vulcan FC, was found dead at the house on Dixon Avenue, Newton-le-Willows on Friday. A post-mortem confirmed he died from a blow to the back of the head.

A 17-year-old boy has been charged with murder and theft.

In a statement Vulcan FC said: "Richard, known to all as Dickie, was a tremendous servant to the club both on and off the pitch.

"Dickie began his playing career in the 1960s and continued playing into his 40s.

"Dickie took on the role as club secretary and kept this role well into his 60s.

"Dickie was a regular at Vulcan games both home and away.

"When not attending games Dickie kept in regular contact with the Club, checking on how things were going.

"Dickie was also a great servant to The Warrington District Football League with 21 years’ service on the committee and gaining lifelong membership.

"Dickie will be sadly missed by everyone involved with Vulcan FC.

"A minute's silence will be observed at our 1st Team home game on Tuesday, August 22."

Friends and former team-mates turned to social media to share their memories of Dickie.

In a statement, the Warrington District Football League said: "It is with great sadness that we announce the death of a League Legend.

Richard Percival (Dickie)who passed away.

"Dickie has he was known by many was a great servant to The Warrington District Football League with 21 years’ service on the committee and gaining lifelong membership.

"Dickie will be sadly missed by everyone involved with grassroots football and especially the league."

Meanwhile, tributes flowed on Facebook.

Phil Smith said: "Woken up to sad news that a true local football legend who dedicated his whole life to local football sadly passed away the game has lost a true friend and servant to the game who gave so much a real gent that will be sadly missed. RIP Richard Percival."

Danny Jones added: "RIP Mr Vulcan."

Paul Gregory said: "RIP Dickie. He was a lovely man. He was a very good player and clubman. It's awful news."