Tributes have been paid across the Manx sporting community to Brian ‘Fox’ Cain, who has died after a short illness.

Known affectionately to many simply as Fox, he was a hugely popular figure in the Marown community and beyond, with football and bowls among the sports that meant so much to him.

Marown AFC described him as a ‘true club legend’ and ‘the ultimate club man’ following his peaceful death on Sunday, August 30 at the age of 77.

Fox was a stalwart of The Farmers for more than three decades after joining from Union Mills, playing for the club throughout the 1970s, 1980s and into the 1990s before continuing his football career with Foxdale.

He captained Marown in 1972, 1973 and 1974 before returning to lead the side again in 1982 following an eight-year break.

Among the highlights of his time with Marown were the club’s first-ever victory over Peel, a remarkable 7-2 win away at Douglas Road, and being part of the 1985 Woods Cup-winning team which defeated St John’s 3-2 in the final.

Marown said Fox ‘never let the club down when needed’, adding that he was always prepared to play in any position.

Away from the pitch, he was a familiar face in The Crosby Pub, where he could often be found enjoying a bitter alongside his friends Derek Corkill (Decca) and Ian Kaighin (Kacksy), who have also sadly since passed away.

Football remained a passion well beyond the years when many would have hung up their boots.

Foxdale AFC paid tribute to a player who continued to represent the club well into his 60s, describing him as someone who always played with a smile and the enthusiasm of a 20-year-old.

The club recalled his extraordinary commitment to training, including wearing a black bin liner underneath his hoodie to help him ‘sweat it all out’ during sessions.

Some of Foxdale’s current players were fortunate enough to share the pitch with him during their younger years.

The club said his dedication to the game was ‘remarkable’ and perfectly captured his devotion to football.

His sporting interests extended to bowls, too, with Marown Bowling Club describing him as a ‘big part of the club for many years’.

He was always willing to turn up and support the club’s teams and, as recently as last year, stepped into the A team when they were short of a player.

That resulted in him facing the Island Champion, but Fox still managed to score a point, joking afterwards that it might have made all the difference.

He continued playing until recently, with his final game coming in July. True to form, he signed off with a victory.

The bowling club also remembered his involvement in its Over 60s ‘Dad’s Army’ revolution, while Fox could often be found in the clubhouse enjoying a cup of tea and watching the action.

Tributes across the island have painted a picture of a man who was loved not only for his sporting ability, but for his character, humour, loyalty and friendship.

For generations of Manx footballers and sportspeople, Fox was simply an ‘absolute gent’.

Marown AFC concluded its tribute by saying: ‘A gentleman, a leader, and a Farmer through and through.’

A celebration of Fox’s life will be held at Braddan Church at 1pm on Friday, September 11.

He leaves behind a lasting legacy across Manx sport and a host of friends and teammates who will remember him with great affection.