OLDER members of Achilles have been deeply saddened by the death last month of Roy Mills after a short illness - he was 79.Roy joined Achilles in the early 1940s, and retained a keen interest in the club throughout his life.

OLDER members of Achilles have been deeply saddened by the death last month of Roy Mills after a short illness - he was 79.

Roy joined Achilles in the early 1940s, and retained a keen interest in the club throughout his life.

The eldest of three brothers, together with Norman and Geoffrey, he played a prominent role in Achilles' successes when they were generally regarded as one of the three leading clubs in Ipswich.

As a strong and dominant centre half, Roy captained the side for many seasons following the departure of several leading players who left and formed Wanderers FC. He also played cricket and hockey for Achilles.

After hanging up his boots, Roy became a member of Graham Road Bowls Club and Sproughton Bowls Club. He was also treasurer of Sproughton playing committee and took a keen interest in Sproughton FC.

Long-time Achilles official and vice president Cyril Garnham said: “Roy's quiet and unassuming manner together with a dry sense of humour made him a popular sportsman among team mates and opponents.

“He will be sadly missed by the many friends he made on and off the field.”