Local football 'legend' dies at 40

A father-of-two and goalkeeping "legend" of Black Country football has died suddenly at the age of 40.

Tributes have been paid to "true character" Scott Turbutt, who had spells with clubs including Willenhall Town, Bilston Town, Bloxwich Town, Halesowen Town and Great Wyrley.

He was a passenger in a car with his wife just yards from his home last Thursday, when he began complaining of chest pains before collapsing.

He had suffered a heart attack.

The lorry driver, of Western Avenue, Bentley, Walsall, leaves wife Vicky and daughters Ashleigh, aged 17, and Alex, eight.

Life-long friend David "Did" Bray, aged 40, said Everton FC supporter Scott was also a big Northern Soul fan and an accomplished dancer.

"He was a fun-loving chap and loved a bit of friendly banter," he said.

"He was always taking the mickey, but if you ever needed someone he was always there for you.

"It was a shock, because Scott was such a fit bloke and had played semi-professional football for years.

"I just can't work out how he's gone and the rest of us are still here."

Chris Burton, spokesman at Willenhall Town, where Scott played between 1998 and 2000, said his loss would be sorely felt.

"Scott was a true character in the nicest possible sense, and he will truly be missed by all that who the pleasure of knowing him," he said.

"He was a brilliant goalkeeper on his day.

"People often say that goalkeepers are all mad and Scott was a living proof.

"He was absolutely full of life and was a bit of a legend on the local football scene. He played for loads of clubs around here.

"It's very upsetting. I would like to pass on my condolences to Scott's family and friends on behalf of all at Willenhall Town at this most distressing of times."

The funeral will take place at Emmanuel Parish Church in Bentley on May 17, at 1.30pm.