Pembrokeshire Football has lost a great character with the untimely passing of Gwyn Ellis Payne, a terrific goalkeeper with Goodwick United and a gentleman of the game.
 
We asked Goodwick chairman Brian Morris, who played alongside Gwyn and was a good friend, to tell us a bit more about the keeper known as ‘The Cat’ and we are honoured to print his very moving trilogy – and we all at PembrokeshireSport.co.uk send our heartfelt sympathy to all of his family and many friends.
 

Gwyn Ellis Payne – ‘The Cat’ by Brian Morris

 
Goodwick United have this week lost a club legend with the passing of Gwyn Payne, who made his first team debut, in the 1972-73 season, in Carew. We lost the game by 10-1, but Gwyn was outstanding. He went on to win two first division championships in 1977-78 and 1993-94.
 
He was an extremely brave keeper who never shirked a challenge. His ability to get showered, changed and be in the bar before some players have even got back to the changing rooms was legendary. Gwyn loved the banter of the changing room and the bar afterwards and he had a wicked sense of humour
 
With this in mind he always preferred to be defending the goal closest to the bar in the second half. He would never agonise over a game, so once the referee had blown his final whistle it was time to enjoy the evening with his mates.



 

A fine player – but just as good as a club man

 
When he hung up his boots, Gwyn became an active member of the club committee and he played a major part in the improvements made to Phoenix Park over the years, making it one of the best grounds in the county. He was a loyal supporter, particularly enjoying the away trips in the West Wales Cup, where he was always accompanied by his daughter Sian.
 
Gwyn had suffered with his health over the past few years but his attitude towards his condition typified his strength of character and resourcefulness.
 
The club has been inundated with messages of support from the Pembrokeshire Football community which demonstrates the impact that Gwyn had made and the respect which he deservedly garnered over many years.
 
Our sincere condolences go Gwyn's wife Anwen, his three daughters, Angharad, Sian and Nia, and the rest of the family.