TRIBUTES have been paid to a popular former headteacher and football coach following his death last week.
Maurice Vernon Firth, 94, died peacefully on April 9.
He was the headmaster of both Worsbrough Common and Wilthorpe Primary School.
He was also involved with Barnsley FC over many years, particularly with Barnsley Boys and the academy.
Maurice was the manager of Barnsley Boys in 1956 and in three seasons with them he won the English Schools Shield twice.
He was then asked to coach the Barnsley under-18 team before moving to the reserve team manager.
Speaking to the Chronicle before his death, he said: “I have been on coaching courses and gained all the necessary qualifications but I learned more about football from speaking to Norman Rimmington and Johnny Steele in the Barnsley laundry room than I did on any course.
“It was like the famous Anfield boot room.”
He was also offered a job at Nottingham Forest but turned it down.
He added: “It was a very good offer but the thing with me is that if you actually cut me in half then Barnsley pours out.”
His nephew, Andrew Barraclough, told the Chronicle: “There will be no funeral service as he requested a direct cremation.
“We are planning a get together in the summer to celebrate his life.”
Anyone wishing to attend can contact Andrew at andyb1961@sky.com.
