Colin Boswell steps down as the chief executive of the Valley Express Kent Youth League on Thursday evening, more than three decades after he founded the league.

Mr Boswell originally decided to step down two years ago although ill health meant that he played a minor role than he had hoped in his final year at the helm.

In his annual report to be presented at the league's annual meeting, Mr Boswell said: "The competition was born with just eight clubs at the start of the 1981-82 season.

"We decided not to go below Under 13, a correct decision, and now have 180 teams and I am pleased to say that we have not dropped our standard, quality and not quantity.

"I am looking forward to the AGM to say a fond farewell to the clubs, friends and acquaintances I have made.

"Although I expect to bump into many of you on my travels as president of the Kent FA, I shall miss the day to day running of the competition.

"The good news, and I would not have it any other way, is that I am handing over to a marvellous replacement in Ken Brooke, he will do you proud."

Mr Boswell's replacement as chief executive, Ken Brooke, led the tributes in his annual report.

He wrote: "Colin will have had a few run ins with many of you out there tonight.

"You may not have always agreed with his decisions, but he has earned the respect of all of you for what he has achieved for the benefit of youth football in this county, and his knowledge and experience of what it takes to stay at the top.

"It takes courage to make brave decisions, it takes courage to want to embrace the changing world of communications, to embrace modern technology, and it takes great skill and patience to build a team that helps you achieve those ambitions. Colin has ticked all those boxes and more.

"I have learnt so much from Colin that it is almost impossible to put into words."