TRIBUTES have been paid this week to a football club official described as a “cheery gentle giant”. Andrew Nichols, known as Andas to his friends, died on Saturday, May 23 at Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge.

TRIBUTES have been paid this week to a football club official described as a “cheery gentle giant”.

Andrew Nichols, known as Andas to his friends, died on Saturday, May 23 at Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge. He was 30.

Members of Freethorpe Football Club, shocked by the sudden loss of the committed club supporter, said he had a heart of gold.

Andrew had served the club in numerous roles over the years, including assistant manager of the Sunday adult team, helping to run the East Norfolk Futsal League and barman at Freethorpe Social Club. He also helped with many fundraising events and would always be on the sidelines supporting Freethorpe teams.

Club official Marcus Smith said: “Andrew had a friendly smile, cheery greetings for everyone, and his willing-ness to always lend a hand will be fondly remembered and greatly missed by all at the club. Our gentle giant with a heart of gold has gone on his last away match. Our thoughts are with Dreamy, Sandra, Bev, Mel and family at this extremely sad time.”

The Mercury understands a Facebook page set up in his memory has more than 150 members.

Andrew was at Freethorpe Primary and Acle High schools and went on to work as a dry-liner. His funeral is today at Freethorpe Methodist Church at midday, when hundreds of people are expected to attend.