A WEEK on from the tragic passing of local sporting stalwart, Colin Brookes, heartfelt tributes have continued to pour in from the local non-league football community, borough sporting world and beyond.
Halesowen Town FC president Colin Brookes died aged 83 following a medical emergency at a match against Stratford Town FC last week (November 25), leaving behind a legacy of "dedication, resilience, and community spirit", the club said.
Their tribute read: "Everyone who knew him would know that if he had chosen a way to go, it would have been watching his beloved Yeltz and a quick passing.
"Our thoughts are with Karen [his daughter] and the family and all their friends at this time."
The news sent shockwaves through the footballing community, with many neighbouring Midlands teams paying tribute to Brookes.
Stratford Town Football Club, who Halesowen Town were playing when Brookes passed, said they were "devastated" to witness his sudden illness.
"As a football community, we have lost a true stalwart," the club said. "To pass away watching his beloved Yeltz reflects a lifelong passion that those who knew him will understand.
"All of our thoughts are with Karen, his family, and the entire Halesowen Town community.
"Rest in Peace, Colin."
Local rivals Stourbridge Football Club held a minute's applause ahead of their game the day after his death (November 26).
They said: "A truly wonderful gentleman who will be missed by so many...our thoughts are with everyone who was lucky enough to be touched by his life."
Over in Warwickshire, Leamington Football Club said: "Everyone at Leamington FC would like to extend our heartfelt thoughts and condolences to Colin's family, friends and everyone associated with Halesowen Town FC following the heartbreaking news of the passing of the Yeltz Club President, Colin Brookes.
"Colin's footballing life began at the highest level, where he was signed by Sir Matt Busby in 1957 alongside his close friend Nobby Stiles.
"His career later led him away from United and Colin went on to dedicate years of service to Halesowen Town, where he left a legacy.
"Colin was a hugely respected figure, whose contribution to the club and the local football community will never be forgotten.
"Colin will be deeply missed by all who knew him, and he will be remembered fondly by everyone whose lives he touched."
Colin Brookes made an impacting in the footballing world across the nation (Image: Halesowen Town FC)
Closer to home, Bromsgrove Sporting Football Club held a minute's applause in Brookes' honour ahead of their match on Sunday (November 30).
They said: "One thing is for sure - the Halesowen lads certainly gave him a finish he'd have been so proud of yesterday", referencing The Yeltz's thrilling 4-4 draw with Bishops Stortford, that saw them come back from 4-1 down in the 82nd minute.
Dudley Town Football Club also said: "Our thoughts are with everyone at Halesowen Town FC and Colin's family.
"May you rest in peace, Colin."
From three months as a Busby Babe at Manchester United to scoring in front of thousands at Wembley with England Schoolboys, Barnsley-born Brookes took the football world by storm all across the nation.
Amidst it all, he said becoming Chairman at Halesowen Town was "one of the proudest moments of his footballing career".
However, it was not just the footballing world Brookes took by storm.
An avid cricketer, he enjoyed a long and successful playing career at Netherton Cricket Club.
"We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Colin Brookes," Netherton CC said. "Colin joined the Club in 1968, and during his long playing career, he took on the captaincy of our 1st XI for a few years from 1982, whilst then leading our 2nd XI during the mid 90's that included one of our most successful seasons in 1995.
"Throughout his time with the Club, Colin gave his time up as not only part of the Club Committee but also to umpiring our games when his football commitments allowed.
"His support to all, especially to younger players coming through, was much appreciated.
"This, along with all of his pranks and banter, made him one of the great characters.
"Whether it was him telling bowlers he had hit better over cow corner, hiding people's kit or shouting 'by the way' as someone left the room, he will be missed by all at the Cricket Club.
"Our thoughts are with Colin's family and friends."
Colin is remembered by his family, including his daughter, Karen, who helped rescue the club in 2018 alongside her dad and Keith McKenna, his friends and everyone at Halesowen Town.