Steve started running a youth team under the Crosby Stuart umbrella in 1992. His first son, Paul, played in midfield and my son, Simon, was centre-forward.

Over eight fantastic years, the team achieved great success, winning a number of cup competitions as well as a league title in the Maghull and Lydiate League in 1997 when the boys were 13-years-old.

Many players progressed their football education with Liverpool, Everton, Tranmere Rovers, Wrexham and, indeed, Marine. Lee Mullin, who played regularly at left-back in Roly Howard’s final years as manager was one of them, along with David Lynch.

Steve was an Evertonian and as Blue as they come. He was a proud season ticket holder since childhood, standing then latterly sitting on the Gwladys Street with both of his sons who are just as passionate as him about the club.

For more than 30 years, Steve worked for the Inland Revenue. When Crosby Stuart disbanded in 2000 as the boys entered their late teens, I encouraged him to join Marine’s board.

Aside from his encyclopaedic understanding of tax and finance, I thought he was simply a good fella who would enjoy and relish the challenges that come with helping run Marine.

Steve flourished and his role in securing Arriva’s long-standing sponsorship of Marine’s stadium was significant. He also acted as press-officer where his organisational skills were really apparent.

He chose to leave board matters around the same time as me, since spending every other weekend at Goodison Park with the same fervour as he had before, while attending Marine games when he could.

More recently, Steve had taken up golf and we spent many a happy hour at Formby Hall.

Steve, who was 60 years old and recently retired, leaves behind his wife, Terri, his daughter Clare as well as Paul and Neil who are all now married.

There are too many friends to mention who will miss him.

Steve's funeral is at Thornton Crematorium next Wednesday 8th October at 10.40 am.