Death of football stalwart White
Herbert White
ONE of the great stalwarts of Nottinghamshire football, Bulwell man Herbert White (pictured), has died at the age of 98.
Bert, as he was affectionately known, was a highly-respected player, referee and administrator.
He represented the county as a player before spending 33 years, from 1946, as a referee, working his way up to the highest grade possible at the time, class one.
He was well known on the Midland League circuit and officiated in important English FA Amateur Cup ties, including a semi-final at Sunderland’s old Roker Park ground.
After refereeing a Sixth Round match at The Oval cricket ground, he won praise from Sir Stanley Rous, the president of the FA, which led to Bert’s highest honour — being chosen to run the line for an international match between France and Belgium in March 1959.
As an administrator, Bert was a tireless worker for the the Bulwell and District League, which became the Notts Combination in 1964. He served on the management committee as registrar for 21 years before retiring because of failing eyesight in 1992 when the FA presented him with a special plaque.
Paying tribute this week, the Combination’s long-serving secretary, Eddie Varney, said: “Bert remained active and was always on hand to offer advice and support. He was made a life member of the league for services rendered.
“Those who knew him have lost a dear friend. The league has lost one of its great servants, and football is much the poorer. My deepest sympathy to daughters Christine and Linda and son Keith.”
Bert lived for many years on Ingram Road in Bulwell before moving to warden-aided flats in the town. He died last Saturday at a nursing home in West Bridgford, and his funeral takes place at Bramcote Crematorium on Tuesday February 21.
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