Rolls-Royce Celtic tribute to former Noots County captain Pedro

Richards (45) played for Rolls-Royce Celtic in the Notts Sunday Morning League after retiring from the professional game.

And Celtic guru Peter Moody spoke of his sadness at the loss of "one of the nicest people I have ever known".

"During his career, Pedro played at places like Anfield and Old Trafford and yet the game was never too big for him," said Moody.

"He lived life to the full and was a lovely guy.

"Whenever we at Celtic talk about the players who would make up our best-ever side, Pedro is always mentioned.

"He would certainly be in my side at centre-back. He was different class.

"I was so sad to hear about his death, I couldn t believe it. To die at the age of 45 is hard to take in."

Cultured defender Richards played more than 30 games for Celtic in the 1989-90 and 1990-91 seasons.

He got to know Moody during the Hucknall manager s spells as number two to another ex-Notts player, Ray O Brien, at non-league clubs, Boston United and Corby Town.

Richards made 484 appearances for The Magpies during the 1970s and 1980s and helped them reach the First Division (now the Premiership) in 1981. He was granted a testimonial at Meadow Lane before his pro career came to a premature end when he was given a free transfer in December 1985.

He died of pneumonia in the Queen s Medical Centre, Nottingham on December 23.

Hundreds of mourners attended his funeral in The Meadows, Nottingham on New Year s Eve.

Richards leaves two sons, one of whom, aged 14, is a member of Notts County s youth academy.

A MINUTE S silence, as a mark of respect for Richards, was held before Celtic s match against Hucknall Plough Rangers last Sunday and also before Hucknall Town s game against Bamber Bridge last Saturday.