A FOOTBALL fan got to rub shoulders with the Queen at Buckingham Palace in recognition of his years of voluntary service to the beautiful game.

Terry Turrell, a former Great Yarmouth Grammar School pupil, was among scores of guests who enjoyed the Queen's hospitality at one of her annual garden parties. Terry, 75, started his football career as a teenager and over the years moved off the pitch into administration of local leagues, which he continues today. He was nominated to attend the grand garden party by his brother Ken, who lives in Norwich, and was delighted to receive the regal invitation summoning him to the royal event last Wednesday. The retired bank manager and dad-of-one said: 'It was marvellous. We were fortunate with the weather, it was clear blue skies and sunshine - they even brought out ice cream because it was so hot.

'You go through the palace when you go in and wander round the gardens and see everything. And the Queen and Duke of Edinburgh came past while we were lined up.'

Terry, who was born in Caister, played with Great Yarmouth Town FC mainly in the reserve squad but made a couple of appearances with the first team. He also helped establish a controversial Sunday league within the town in the 50s. In those days if you played Sunday football you could get banned from playing Saturday football. It was frowned upon,' he added.

Terry now lives in Northamptonshire and works with Bedfordshire FA where he has been treasurer for forty years.