THE beloved ‘bedrock’ of one of Hereford’s famed footballing families, Molly Phillips, has died, aged 90.

The mother of former Hereford United striker Stewart, and wife to the club’s former director, Archie, will be remembered as a “truly lovely lady”, who always put her family first.

Stewart said: “The family life we had as children, and the upbringing we enjoyed, gave us a lifetime’s worth of experiences and opportunities.

“She was the most wonderful mother that Tina, Graham and myself could have wished for.”

Coming from a large family, Mrs Phillips moved from Cinderford as a youngster, with the Buchanan family setting up a home on Springfield Avenue.

While in Hereford, she met Archie, who she married in 1947, and with whom she would raise a family.

As Stewart went on to break goal-scoring records for United, she remained a grounding presence, leaving the football to the footballers.

Stewart said: “She was a strong person, and a lady of little fuss.

“There was lots of football in our house, but she didn’t come to games – she was there for all of us.”

A faithful church-goer, Mrs Phllips is survived by her children, brother Alwyn and sister Letty, and seven grandchildren.

Sophie Phillips, her granddaughter, said: "She is leaving behind seven grandchildren who loved her very much.

"After suffering a stroke five years ago, a lot of people have done a huge amount to help.

"I just wanted to say a thankyou to the Lugg Ward at Hereford County Hospital, Elite Social Care and to family friend Anthony Tucker."

The funeral will be held at St Peter Church in Bullinghope from 2pm on Friday.