Tributes have been paid to Isle of Wight football legend Steve Rayner, who died on Thursday morning.
Steve was one of the most successful managers in Island football history, guiding Whitecroft and Barton Sports through an unprecedented period of dominance.
He led WAB to six successive Island League Division One titles, establishing the club as the dominant force in the Island game.
His family described Steve as a beloved dad, grandad and partner to Elaine, who was loved by them all.
His son Joe, the current WAB manager, paid tribute to his father's lifelong passion for the game.
“He ate, slept and breathed football and was the 'Del Bosque' of WAB,” he said.
The comparison is a reference to former Spain and Real Madrid manager Vicente del Bosque, who led his country to World Cup and European Championship glory.
Steve's final game in charge of WAB came in June 2021, when his side beat Shanklin 4-0, just days after securing a remarkable sixth consecutive league title.
Paying tribute, WAB said Steve had left an "incredible mark" on the club and those who knew him.
The club said: “It is with great sadness that we learned today of the passing of Steve Rayner.
“Steve guided our club through the most successful period in its history, leaving an incredible mark both on the club and on everyone fortunate enough to have known him.
“He will be sorely missed by everyone who had the honour of meeting him, but his achievements, his passion and, above all, his love for the club will ensure that his legacy continues to burn brightly for many years to come.
“Our thoughts are with Steve's family, friends and everyone who had the privilege of sharing the journey with him.
“Rest in peace, Steve. You will never be forgotten.”
Tributes have also been paid from across the Island football community.
Newport IW FC remembered Steve as both a "hugely talented player" and an "outstanding manager."
The club said: “Steve was a hugely talented player in his day and later an outstanding manager.
“His record of six Island League titles with Whitecroft and Barton speaks for itself.
“But perhaps the greatest tribute is simply how much football meant to him, and how much he meant to the people who played for him and knew him.
“Everyone at Newport IW FC sends our sincere condolences to Steve's partner Elaine, his children Dean, Joe and Danielle, his grandchildren, and all his friends.
“Our thoughts are also with everyone at Whitecroft and Barton.
“A sad loss to Island football.”
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