Tributes paid to Fred Conway at Cumberland Cup final

And Fred Conway was remembered with a poignant tribute at this week’s county senior cup final.

The hugely respected and admired former Cumberland FA chairman, Mr Conway died last November aged 59.

A minute's applause before the game in memory of Fred Conway, the late @CumberlandFA chairman after whom this competition is now named ♥️ pic.twitter.com/GIexUGAHux

— Jon Colman (@joncolman) May 2, 2023

The county football association were quick to rename their historic showpiece competition after him – meaning it is now known as the Fred Conway Cumberland Cup.

Officials and players prepare for the minute's applause (Image: Barbara Abbott)

Tuesday’s final between Workington Reds and Penrith AFC at Carlisle United’s Brunton Park ground saw some of Mr Conway’s family, including his partner Vicky, at the game as guests of honour.

Penrith's players gather for the minute's applause (Image: Barbara Abbott)

They were introduced to the teams before a minute’s applause was held in Mr Conway’s memory.

"All those who knew Fred knew how much he did for football in Cumberland, and how much he cared for this competition," an announcement over the public address system told the 676-strong attendance.

Fans were told that, such was Mr Conway's devotion to the Cumberland Cup, it was regarded as "his" competition.