Tributes to double-winning Aylesbury United football captain who played with Stanley Matthews

Aylesbury United's Delphian League winning team from 1954. Geoff Halward is pictured back row, second from left

Geoff Halward. 86, captained the Ducks to two trophies in the fifties during his time with the club.

Mr Halward, who lived in Prestwood, joined the Ducks in 1952. He led the side to victory in the Delphian League during the 1953/54 campaign and the Berks & Bucks Benevolent Cup in the same season.

At 6ft 4in, Mr Halward was described by some observers as one of the best centre-halves the club has ever had.

Mr Halward’s wife Jean said: “During the trophy-winning period more than 3,000 people came to watch. He always played centre-half but once stepped in in goal when he was playing for Rickmansworth. He was later picked to play for the county team.”

According to press cuttings, Mr Halward once played with Stanley Matthews in the Royal Air Force training team.

Mrs Halward added: “He was offered professional status with Manchester United in 1950 but decided to stay as an amateur.”

Mr Halward’s funeral is being held at Chiltern Crematorium at 1.45pm tomorrow (Thursday).

A club spokesman said they sent their condolences.