The family of a former Bath City footballer who has died aged 66 have paid tribute to him.

Colin Skirton, of The Hollow, played for the club for several years before playing for Trowbridge and Radstock.

The keen sportsman, who grew up in Whiteway, went to Westhill Boys' School, which is now Culverhay.

He worked as a builder for local firm Mortimers, which was based in Weston, and Beazers until he had a tragic accident in 1979, losing his left leg while working as a skip driver at a site in Bath

As a result of the accident he was inspired to become one of the company's health and safety officers.

He was voted onto the council of Somerset Football Association in 1983 and became a life member in 2004.

The association paid tribute to him on its website: "In spite of ill health in recent years he was still a familiar face at council and youth matches, remaining an active member of council to the end.

"He will be missed by us all."

Colin, a father-of-three, suffered from several health problems and had a heart bypass in 1994.

But his family said this only inspired him to continue his love of sport and family life as well as enjoy many holidays with his wife, daughters and grandchildren.

Colin played bowls for the City of Bath, Weston and the Post Office clubs, and did not let the loss of his leg affect his love for sport.

He later became the secretary of the City of Bath Bowls Association, and played all over the country.

He was also secretary of the City of Bath Open Tournament, organising the competition.

Colin also played cricket for more than 20 years and even played a few games after he had lost his leg.

Three years ago he seriously injured his neck after a fall, which caused him an extra problem with his mobility and breathing problems.

He was then diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, where the airways of the lungs become narrowed.

Colin died peacefully in his home last Tuesday. He leaves his wife Brenda, 65, identical twin daughters, Claire and Lisa, his eldest child Tracey and seven grandchildren.

Brenda said: "We have had great times together, not least in raising our three girls who Colin cherished. Words cannot explain what a void has been left.

"We would have been married for 45 years this May. I will hold very close to my heart all the memories we have had together."

His daughters said in a statement: "Even though Dad has been poorly for the past couple of years it is still a huge shock that he has passed away.

"We were so used to seeing his warm smile and cheeky grin, especially when asking for his regular cup of tea.

"Dad meant the world to us. We are so proud of him. Even when he was not in the best of health he would still think of others first.

"His passing away has caused a huge gap in our lives and it hurts so much.

"His memory will always be alive; he was an inspiration.

"He adored Mum and his seven grandchildren and we will all share our many happy memories with them."

Sons in law Steve Dixon and Brian Davies also paid tribute to Colin.

Steve said: “Skirts was the best father-in-law you could wish for, his family was everything to him and he was everything to us. Nothing was ever too much trouble for him.”

“It’s only now that you really get a sense of how much he meant to you. All that he has done was for the benefit for those he has left behind. I will always have great memories of him.

“Colin knew lots of people and everyone I have talked to over the last few days was very fond of him.”

Brian said: “He was a great man and supported us in everything we have done. I am so proud to be a member of his family. We have shared some wonderful times, they are memories that will never fade and they will be told to my children in the years to come.

“They will all know what an infectious character their grampy was.”

Graham Bohen, former commercial manager at Bath City, grew up with the Skirton family and said his thoughts were with them.

He said: "I worked with Colin at Mortimers and he was a very good scaffolder.

"He was well liked by all his colleagues and was a very, very keen sportsman."

The funeral service will be held at Haycombe Cemetery chapel on Thursday, February 19 at noon, followed by a private family burial.

Afterwards there will also be a celebration of Colin's life at Bath City Football Club, which will be open to everyone.