A local man who has dedicated his life to football in the area has died. 

Colin Nunn, 51, was a prominent figure in Swindon, both in grassroots football as a referee and at Swindon Town Football Club, but died on Friday afternoon. 

Announcing his death on Saturday, His daughter, Danielle Jones, paid tribute to her 'amazing dad'. 

She said: "My heart breaks writing this, but my amazing dad Colin Nunn passed away on Friday afternoon. Our family are devastated and no words can describe how we are feeling at the moment.

"You were the best dad to me and I’ll forever be grateful to call you that. You have done so much for our family and thank you for being my No1 fan at football.

"I love you so much and I always will. Rest well Dad I hope I’ll forever make you proud, give everyone up there a hug for me. Until I can myself….Always."

Wiltshire Times: Danielle Jones with father Colin Nunn at a football matchDanielle Jones with father Colin Nunn at a football match (Image: Danielle Jones)Colin has been ill for some time and Danielle also wanted to pass on her gratitude to the Prospect Hospice who 'looked after her dad so much' 

Colin's death has sparked an outpouring of support and tributes from the local footballing community, with many highlighting the decades of contributions he made. 

A spokesperson for Swindon Town Football Club, where Colin was a former tunnel safety steward, said: "All at Swindon Town are saddened to learn of the passing of one of our colleagues, Colin Nunn.

"Colin has been a part of the team at #STFC for over 30 years as well as a supporter his whole life.

"Thoughts and condolences are with Colin's family and friends at this time."

The Official Wiltshire County Womens & Girls League also paid tribute to Colin. 

A spokesperson for them said: "We’re really sad to hear of the death of Colin Nunn, who until recently was our referee secretary.

"Colin will be greatly missed by the football community. His contribution over many years was absolutely fabulous and we are grateful for all he did for the league."

Wiltshire Times: Colin NunnColin Nunn (Image: Danielle Jones)

A spokesperson for the South West Regional Women's Football League added: "The sad news has reached the league this morning of the passing of Colin Nunn, our former Referee Appointment Officer.

"Colin was a massive fan of football and a huge part of the league for many seasons and we will always be thankful for the part Colin played in our successes.

"Colin will be missed by all across the football community."