Tributes paid to 'popular' football club manager with 'wicked sense of humour'

• 
• 
• 
• 
• 

TRIBUTE has been paid to a 'lovely person with a wicked sense of humour' who dedicated much of his life to football in Bournemouth.

Colin Emms, 74, died on June 26 after suffering a cardiac arrest.

Colin managed several football teams in the area, including Westover Bournemouth FC - formerly Bournemouth YMCA - which competed in the Bournemouth League from 1920 to 1985.

Throughout his life, Colin worked in a variety of roles and had many passions.

He was the drummer in a band called Magic, performing in pubs and social clubs for more than four decades.

(Image: Tribute to Colin Emms, Submitted by Family) He also devoted many years to youth football, managing Charminster Saints, the first Bournemouth youth team to win the Hampshire Cup in 1991 before becoming involved with Westover Bournemouth FC.

Westover Bournemouth FC has paid tribute to Colin, saying: "Colin, who was 74, had also been involved in a managerial capacity at the Westover Bournemouth Football Club, having assisted Steve Richards with the Reserves and then the 1st Team for a number of years.

"He and Steve became close friends outside of football, going on family holidays together etc.

"A lovely person with a wicked sense of humour, Colin will be sadly missed, and the Club offer their deepest sympathy and sincere condolences to wife Sue, daughter Jenette, and son Chris."

(Image: Tribute to Colin Emms (right), Submitted by Family)

(Image: Tribute to Colin Emms, Submitted by Family) Colin's son, Chris Emms, said his father left a lasting impression on everyone he met and would be deeply missed by the community.

He said: "He was so involved with so many youth teams and football clubs over the years. And of course, he had his band, where he played the drums at gigs around pubs and social clubs.

"He was a very kind man and hugely popular, lots of people knew him from football and from his music."

(Image: Tribute to Colin Emms (left), Submitted by Family) Chris added that the family is grateful for the support they've received since Colin's death.

He said: "He was always joking around and making people smile.

"He'll be missed, but his life will always be celebrated, and we're thankful for all the wonderful memories we have of him."