MERVYN Stewkesbury has passed away after a lengthy illness.
The former Weymouth and Poole boss saved the Wildcats from folding in 1980 but after five seasons at Radipole Lane, moved a short hop along the coast to Poole after the Pirates went into liquidation.
Poor crowds at the Wessex Stadium encouraged him and his right hand man Pete Ansell to make the switch although the team nickname remained as the Wildcats for two years before reverting to the traditional Pirates again.
Mervyn took over as Poole promoter in 1985 and carried on until 1998 when he sold out to Matt Ford and Mike Golding.
During his time at Wimborne Road, Poole won the National League title on the day his son Grant was born in 1989 and completed the double 12 months later.
Throughout his time in charge of both clubs he discovered exciting talents, including Simon Wigg and Leigh Adams.
He was also a major figure in the old second tier National League, leading their breakaway in 1987 when they set up and operated from their own offices in Weymouth for three seasons.
Mervyn was 89.
BSN sends heartfelt condolences to his family and friends.
Words by Holeshot Media.
Image: Stewkesbury pictured with former colleague Pete Ansell.