A FOOTBALL club has named its new lounge after a local talent scout after his 50 years’ service to the sport.

Thornaby Football Club have named their new lounge the “Eric Powell MBE Lounge” in recognition of Eric Powell MBE’s service to football for over 50 years.

Mr Powell, originally from Thornaby and now living in Yarm, spent over 50 years as a professional talent scout working for Middlesbrough, Newcastle United, Everton and Manchester United to name a few.

Having been presented with a 50-year service award from the FA and recently receiving the MBE from Prince Charles, Mr Powell has dedicated his life to football.

Mr Powell attended an official opening ceremony recently and was joined by Mayor of Thornaby. – Councillor Steve Walmsley. Councillor Walmsley who said: “I’ve known Eric personally for many years and his unselfish attitude towards football at all levels never ceases to amaze me. He continued “I can’t think of a better way to honour a man who has dedicated his life to football at both grassroots and the highest levels of the game.

Mr Powell MBE said: “I was asked to attend Thornaby FC for what I thought was a presentation evening and was surprised and shocked when I arrived to see family and friends in the clubhouse.” “I was aware that the club had made me a Life President but didn’t know about the naming of the lounge. Being born and bred in Thornaby, this was a truly humbling experience and was made even better by my family and friends being able to share such a fantastic occasion with me.”