Tributes have been paid to a multi-talented sportsman who has been described as “marvellous with people”.
Former Norwich City player and Thetford Golf Club member and greenkeeper Richard ‘Dick’ Scott died on February 11 aged 76.
Born on October 26 1941 in Thetford, on his 17th birthday he became part of Norwich City’s ground staff and played for the youth team and reserves. The right half made 36 appearances and scored three goal for the first team during his spell with the Canaries between 1961 and 1963, and was part of the 1962 League Cup winning team.
A spokesman for Norwich City Football Club said: “We are always saddened to hear of the passing of any former Canary. Dick was a local player that worked his way to the first team through the ranks.
“Our thoughts are with Dick’s friends and family during this difficult time.”
He moved to Cardiff City where he was honoured to play in the same team as Welshman John Charles and also had spells at Scunthorpe United, Lincoln City, King’s Lynn Town, and Thetford Town and Rovers.
Outside of football he was married to Judy for 56 years and had two children, Timothy and Veronica, and three grandchildren, Alex, Maxime and Robert.
“He was a great joker and was always making people laugh,” said Mrs Scott. “He was marvellous with people. He was a character.
“Everyone has got their own little funny stories about him. He was very strong minded.”
Mr Scott was a member of Thetford Golf Club from 1978 until 2005. He was head greenkeeper and was involved in planning and construction at other clubs in Norfolk.
The club’s manager Malcolm Grubb said: “Dick was a multi-talented sportsman and a very capable golfer.
“He represented Thetford in many inter-club county events with considerable success. He was also a very competent head greenkeeper, helping to build Thetford’s reputation as having one of the best-maintained golf courses in the area.
“He will be fondly remembered at Thetford Golf Club and will be sadly missed.”
A tribute from Mick Askew said: “I had the pleasure of his company for around two years as he built and designed Richmond Park Golf Club [near Watton]. A true gentleman and a very talented man in all aspects of sport.
“So sad to hear of his passing I have lots of memories of our time together. My condolences to his family.”
He and his wife spent 15 years of their retirement in Cyprus and returned to live in Stanton, near Bury St Edmunds, last year.
Mrs Scott added: “Richard always thought he was fortunate because he earned a living from sports that he loved. And on retirement he spent 15 years in the sun in Cyprus.”
A celebration of his life will take place at Bury St Edmunds Crematorium on February 27 at 10.30am. All are welcome to attend.
A get together will take place after at Thetford Golf Club.
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