Tributes have been paid following the passing of Adrian Riddiford, a much-loved figure in football circles, who died peacefully last month, aged 89.
Adrian was a lifelong servant to the game, known for his passion for youth and schools’ football and his commitment to developing opportunities for young players across the region. A former teacher at Manor/Thomas Keble School, Adrian also played a pivotal role in local football administration, coaching, and talent development and worked for the likes of Swindon Town, Bristol City and Forest Green Rovers.
Born in the Chalford Valley in 1936, Adrian attended Chalford Primary School before continuing his education at Marling School. After completing National Service, he trained as a teacher at St Paul’s College, Cheltenham.
His early involvement in school sport led to a place in 1962 on the Committee of the Stroud Schools’ Football Association, where he quickly made his mark by introducing trials as part of the selection process for matches. From 1964 to 1972, he served as Secretary of the Gloucestershire Schools’ Football Association, during which he established the Border Counties League and expanded fixtures for the Under-15 County squad.
Despite the considerable workload—teaching and refereeing alongside his administrative duties—Adrian never forgot his roots. He founded an Old Pupils’ Association for the Manor School and Brimscombe Poly, which included a very successful football team.
In 1972, Adrian was elected—by a landslide—to serve as a Council Member for the area on the English Schools’ Football Association (ESFA), where he served for 19 years. He was an active member of several committees, most notably the Under-15 International Selection Committee, where he reformed the selection process by instituting an inter-divisional match, giving young talent the opportunity to shine.
In the late 1970s, Adrian forged links with the four Football League clubs in his division and introduced a groundbreaking initiative—football coaching in schools delivered by professional players. This scheme benefited more than 80 schools across Gloucestershire, Avon, and Wiltshire. As his responsibilities grew, he was elected Chairman of the ESFA for 1983–84, overseeing 500 associations and nearly 15,000 schools. Many will also recall the Riddiford Youth Shield – a host of young players competing for the coveted silverware.
Adrian retired from teaching in 1991, when Manor School and Highwood School merged to become Thomas Keble School. Retirement, however, was short-lived. Within months, he received several job offers from professional clubs. He was interviewed by Ossie Ardiles, then Swindon Town manager, for the role of Youth Development Officer.
His appointment was briefly delayed when Ardiles left for Newcastle United and was replaced by Glenn Hoddle, under whom Adrian began working. Further changes followed—John Gorman and then Steve McMahon took charge—but Adrian’s dedication to youth football remained constant.
He later joined Bristol City, initially as a scout, before taking up a position in the Director of Youth’s department in 1997. At the same time, he was persuaded to join the Forest Green Rovers board, where he served for four to five seasons until 2000, helping to build vital links between professional and grassroots football.
Legendary former Forest Green Rovers manager Frank Gregan paid a heartfelt tribute to Adrian, describing him as “top class, an absolute gent with tremendous knowledge of all the up-and-coming players in the area.” Gregan said Adrian’s professionalism and passion for the game stood out throughout his time at the club. “He kept in touch after I left the club,” Gregan added. “Even when I moved to Spain, I would still hear from him.” Gregan’s words reflect the deep respect and lasting friendship that Adrian inspired among those who worked alongside him.
Former Forest Green striker Alex Meechan recalled Adrian’s influence in his own career move from Bristol City, writing: “Very sad news. Love to you and the family xx. He was a lovely man and I have many memories.”
Former Forest Green midfielder Rob Cook added: “Did a lot for football in the area. Lovely man. RIP Adrian.”
Former Forest Green programme editor Clive White described Adrian as: “An amazing gentleman and so sad to hear of his passing aged 89. Adrian had a fantastic life and a few years ago I spent time with him recording his life stories to produce his biography ‘My Life in Football.’ R.I.P. a true gentleman.”
Stroud Times editor Ash Loveridge said: “Adrian really was Mr Football. A lovely man, who I first met in the 1980s when he ran the Football Spectaculars at Stratford Park Leisure Centre. His football connections were immense and I remember him bringing a number of Bristol Rovers players to the event, including Gary Mabbutt, who later signed for Spurs and went on to play for England.
“Adrian was a regular face at Forest Green and set up a number of loan moves for the likes of Kayode Odejayi and Alex Meechan to make the switch from Bristol City to Forest Green. In his later years, he would often pop up to the New Lawn to have a cup of tea with then manager Mark Cooper.”
Wiltshire FA CEO Simon Russell paid tribute to Adrian’s remarkable contribution to the game, saying: “Wiltshire FA and all those involved in the game in the county are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Adrian Riddiford, a hugely respected figure whose influence across schools and youth football has left a lasting legacy in Wiltshire and beyond.
“Adrian’s lifelong commitment to developing young players was clear in everything he did. From his early days as a teacher and organiser of school fixtures to his later work as a scout, coach, and mentor, he was passionate about creating opportunities for young people to enjoy and excel in football.
“During his time with the English Schools’ Football Association, where he rose to become Chairman, Adrian championed fairer selection systems and greater access to representative football for pupils across the region—including many from Wiltshire schools. He served as Vice Chair of Wiltshire FA where he contributed greatly to the development of football in the county.
“Adrian helped forge vital links between schools and professional clubs, including Swindon Town, Bristol City, and Forest Green Rovers, giving local players the chance to develop and take their first steps in the professional game.
“His work continues to benefit football in the county today, and his contribution to Wiltshire football will be remembered with great appreciation. His dedication, integrity, and love for the game set an example for all involved in grassroots sport. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family and friends.”
Adrian was the much-loved dad of Mark, Paul, and Sally, and a proud grampy to six grandchildren.
His funeral service will take place at Westerleigh Crematorium on Friday 21st November at 1:15 pm.
Family flowers only, please. Donations in Adrian’s memory for Longfield Hospice may be sent via Michael Gamble Funeral Directors, Station House, Station Road, Stroud, GL5 3AR (cheques payable to the charity), or made online at www.michaelgamble.net.
