ARDLEY United surprised Norman Stacey with a special event to celebrate his 35-year spell as the club’s chairman.

The 74-year-old, who is now the secretary, had expected a normal afternoon at the Playing Fields, where his side were playing Henley Town in the second round of the Oxfordshire Senior Cup on Saturday.

Little did he know he would later be greeted by some of his former managers and players, including Peter Foley, as well as be made honorary life president.

New chairman Ian Feaver said: “It was all a bit of a surprise.

“He knew we were doing something, but wasn’t sure what.

“I did a presentation to Norman, not only to represent the fact he had been chairman for 35 years, but all he had achieved in that time.

“The first thing was the facility – there was only a park pitch and a hut. He built Ardley United.”

During Stacey’s time as chairman, Ardley climbed from the Lord Jersey League up to the Uhlsport Hellenic League.

Originally from Coventry, he decided to change the club’s kit to match that of his beloved Sky Blues.

Stacey also received a signed, framed shirt from former Ardley youngster Stuart Beavon, who now plays for the Sky Bet League Two club.

Feaver, who presented the gift to his predecessor, said: “He was very emotional, very happy.

“We had a great evening.”

It also turned out to be a good day on the pitch as Ardley reached the third round with a 3-0 victory.

The hosts took the lead on 53 minutes, when Deon Gallacher fired in after a goalmouth scramble.

Conor Harris made it 2-0 from the penalty spot after Gallacher was fouled in the area.

And Gallacher was also involved in the third goal, finding the top corner from 20 yards in injury time.