Royals mourn passing of a legend

By David Watters

EVO-STIK League Sutton Coldfield Town are mourning the passing of a Royals legend.

The Royals, who are leaving the Northern Premier League this summer for the new Midlands Division at Step 3, sent their condolences to the friends and family of Andy Biddle this weekend after learning of his passing after a short illness.

Second in the club's all time hall of fame having racked up up 496 appearances in the 1990s, officials at Coles Lane say the all rounder, pictured, suffered a heart attack earlier this week before passing away on Friday.

A club statement read: "It is with deep regret that that the club has to advise that following a heart attack earlier this week, Andy Biddle passed away today. Our heartfelt condolences and best wishes are passed to his family and wide circle of friends.

"Andy or 'Bids' as he was affectionately known was a true Sutton Coldfield sportsman whether it be playing football or cricket. He was a member of the very successful Royals team of the early 1990s and played in the famous tie in the First Round of the FA Cup at Bolton Wanderers in which we played magnificently in losing 2-1 in controversial circumstances.

"Andy is second on our 300 club hall of fame racking up 496 appearances in the 1990s. 'Bids' you may have gone but you won't be forgotten. RIP Andy Biddle. As soon as funeral arrangements have been announced we will advise dates and times and all other details."

Image courtesy of @SCTFC/Twitter

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