Barry Town United's club secretary, David Cole, is retiring from the role after 22 years.
It marks the end of a 36 year involvement at Jenner Park, whch has spanned such milestones as the creation of the League of Wales, a decade of dominance in Welsh league football, memorable European adventures and the club's eventual resurgence in the Cymru Premier.
Daley Chapman will take over as secretary, having previously served as an assistant with the club's media team.
But Mr Cole says he'll still be around as a mentor to those who have taken on some of his other roles, since he first got involved in 1989.
He said: "As the saying goes, “all good things come to an end” ,and so it is for me as after 36 years involvement with the club...it is time to retire and hand over the reins to someone else."
"It has been an honour and a pleasure to be involved with this fabulous football club. I have been on quite a few jaunts to Europe to see us play in the Champions and Conference Leagues."
"I would not have been able to do any of the many tasks that I had taken on without the support of Lyn, who has also retired after over 30 years service to the club."
"The club has almost been my life for so many years and Lyn has on many occasions said I should have a flat in the clubhouse. I have met so many people – some who will remain friends for life."
Mr Cole added: "I will still be around the club as a ‘mentor’ to those who have taken on some of the other jobs I had. I look forward to watching the team play without having to do Comet, steward etc. I will now ride into the sunset."
Daley Chapman has been shadowing Mr Cole during his final season as secretary, alongside other roles such as commentating on Barry Town United matches for Bro Radio's website.
"It’s impossible to overstate what David has meant to this club. He’s been the heartbeat behind the scenes for over three decades – someone we’ve all looked to for stability, wisdom, and quiet leadership", said Daley.
"I’ve learned so much from him, not just about the job, but about what it means to serve a club with humility and heart."
"Stepping into this role after David is a real honour, and while I know I have big shoes to fill, I’ll do everything I can to carry on his legacy with the same dedication he’s shown every single day."
"I appreciate the opportunity provided and I am thankful to the board for placing their trust in me. Really excited to work with all sections of the club, and representing us within the FAW, and beyond."
Barry Town United says it plans to formally honour Mr Cole's work "in a fitting way" during the pre-season campaign, which begins at home to Newport City on Saturday 5th July.
Paying tribute to "one of this club's true heroes", a spokesperson added: "Over the course of 740 games, David has devoted himself fully to the club."
"His tireless dedication, quiet strength, and support have been the foundation on which so much progress has been built."
"Whether coordinating the behind-the-scenes operations or offering support to players, staff, and volunteers, David has been a steady presence – always working hard, never seeking credit, but always earning it."
"David’s retirement is more than deserved. He has given so much of his life to this club, and now it’s time for a well-earned rest away from the daily pressures of the role."
"Still, it will no doubt feel strange not seeing him in his trademark high-vis jacket, offering calm assurance on match-days. David will thankfully remain in a smaller administrate capacity and we are lucky to retain his skills."
Ingle named in Women's Euros squad
Strongman Jacob puts new gym to the test
Bombers reunited at Reservoir Field
Darcey wins first European tour title
Record-breaking Barry Island 10K returns
Llantwit secure pitch maintenance funding
Llantwit announce pre-season fixtures
Barry tennis club plays pickleball
Golden Glove for Barry's Molly
Hulbert makes team of the season
Looking back and looking ahead at Bombers' awards night
Five summer signings at Llantwit
Ingle rejoins Wales camp for training
End-of-season awards for Islanders
Ratcliffe returns at Barry Town United
Kelly poised for Wales breakthrough
Seven players leave Barry Town United
