STROUD has lost “one of its own” after the death of former Forest Green chairman Trevor Horsley, according to MP David Drew.

THE much-loved ex-chairman,63, died in London on Monday.

Mr Drew said: “This is terribly sad news. I saw Trevor a couple of weeks ago when he was undergoing treatment. He fought so long and so valiantly against illness.

“I’ve known Trevor for over 25 years. I had the honour of taking over from him as FGR chairman before Dale Vince ascended to the chair.

“Trevor had a wealth of knowledge of football and I learned so much from him. A brusque Yorkshireman, he had two football loves – FGR and his beloved Leeds Utd.

“Together with Colin Peake and Colin Gardner they provided the groundwork which made it possible for Dale to realise his dream of getting FGR into the Football League – still an achievement that one has to pinch oneself to realise that it has happened.

“He also ran a very successful local business Western Thermals, responsible for many major projects including contributing towards the construction of Wembley.

“I was proud that I was able to call Trevor a friend. He’s done so much for our area. I want to remember Trevor for all the great things he did, especially the relocation of FGR to the New Lawn.

“Stroud has lost one of its own.”

Scores of former Forest Green players and fans have taken to social media to pay tribute to their former chairman.

Former Forest Green player Alex Sykes tweeted: Sad, sad news regarding “Big Trev” tonight..... he was unbelievable in what he did for @FGRFC_Official - I know for sure that the club wouldn’t even be in existence today was it not for him. Top top memories of my times with him..thoughts with his family.

And ex-striker Alex Meechan, said: The Boss..he spoke you listened ,he told you straight ,he loved life and loved FGR.forever indebted to you big Man x the best chairman ..thanks for the unreal times god bless🙏 #onelegend

Club photographer Shane Healey, added: You had the vision to take our little club forward. We will be forever in your debt. Thanks for everything you did for Forest Green Rovers. RIP Trevor Horsley.

Fan and long-term friend Pat Coyle, said: R.I.P. The Legend TH has sadly died today. I would like to thank you for everything you did to make Forest Green Rovers Football Club the club it is today. TREVOR HORSLEY what a leader and what a man, you were loved by my family and myself, I will remember you until I die. My thoughts are with his family. I am so sad and lost for words. BIG Trev you will always will be in my heart