Tributes paid to Frome youth football stalwart

A footballing stalwart who dedicated more than four decades to supporting young players has died aged 86, with his family paying tribute to the positive impact he had on the community.

Graham Clarke BEM QPM died peacefully following a long battle with dementia.

Born and raised in Yeovil, Graham began his working life in the police service, joining as a cadet at the age of 16.

He went on to enjoy a 35-year career with Avon & Somerset Constabulary, rising to the rank of Detective Chief Superintendent and being awarded the Queen’s Police Medal for distinguished service.

Following his retirement from policing, Graham devoted much of his time to youth football across Somerset.

As President of Frome Collegians and a long-serving coach with Somerset Schools and Somerset FA, he helped shape the lives of thousands of young people.

He played a key role in developing Frome Collegians into one of the county’s best-known community football clubs and helped secure its permanent home at The Old Showfield in Frome.

Graham also coached Somerset County Schools Under-19s to a National Championship, led Somerset representative teams and mentored many young people who went on to careers in football, policing, business and public service.

His contribution to youth football and the wider community was recognised with the British Empire Medal in the King’s Birthday Honours in 2023.

Away from his work in policing and football, Graham was a devoted husband to Joan, father to Jason and Nichola, father-in-law to Steve and Heather and grandfather to Jack, James, Scarlett and Graham.

He is also remembered as a much-loved family member and loyal friend to many.

His family said, “While we’re incredibly proud of his achievements, we’re even prouder of the man he was and the positive impact he had on so many people in Frome and beyond.

“We would like to thank the staff at Critchell Court Care Home, Frome, and Torrwood Care Home, Wells, for the compassion and care shown to Graham throughout his illness.”

Graham’s funeral will take place at Haycombe Crematorium in Bath on 27th August at 2pm. Family and friends are invited to attend, with those attending encouraged to wear the colours or scarf of their favourite football club in honour of Graham’s lifelong love of the game.