A much-loved former footballer – who was friends with the likes of John Bishop and Jose Mourinho – has died after a decade-long health battle.

Tom Stevenson was diagnosed with Motor neurone disease (MND) in October 2013.

In the years that followed, the Aston Villa fan worked to raise awareness of his condition with several charity challenges and football matches.

Tom had ‘Global4Stevo’ bright orange t-shirts made which his friends and family wore in locations across the world to spread the word.

Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho, comedian John Bishop and former Aston Villa captains Gareth Barry and Stiliyan Petrov were among those who supported his initiative.

Tom, from Sutton Coldfield in Birmingham, previously played for the likes of Solihull Borough and Boldmere St Michaels, which he captained.

Tamworth Football Club confirmed his sad passing with a statement.

A club spokesperson said: ‘We were saddened to hear of the death of former Lambs player Tom Stevenson, who tragically lost his life from Motor Neurone Disease yesterday.

‘Tom was with the Lambs for three seasons from 2001 to 2003 stepping up to make four appearances and six substitute appearances.

‘Tom went on to play for Bedworth United, Solihull Borough, Racing Club Warwick, Orange County Blue Star (USA) before signing Boldmere St Michaels. He was the Boldmere Captain and he achieved considerable success there.

‘He skippered the Mikes in the third of their hat-trick of Walsall Senior Cup wins, proudly lifting the trophy at Bescot Stadium. We send our deepest condolences and prayers to Tom’s family and friends at this sad time.’

Tom worked at PSR Solutions, a construction and built environment recruitment firm.

Managing Director John Berks said the former non-league hero had ‘remained resilient and displayed incredible strength and bravery throughout his journey.’

John added: ‘Stevo, our dear friend and colleague, taught us the true meaning of strength as he faced the daily challenges of MND with unwavering resolve and determination.

‘He had a magnetic quality to his personality and in the time we were fortunate to spend with him he would bring laughter to those around him, light up any room that he entered and he was always ready for a good wind-up even in the face of adversity.

‘Our hearts and thoughts go out to his family, Lian and his children Theo and Orla, who shared his journey and supported him every step of the way.

‘May Stevo’s courageous spirit inspire us all to live each day with gratitude, compassion and love for those who matter most.’

What are the symptoms of Motor neurone disease (MND)?

Motor neurone disease (MND) is an uncommon condition that affects the brain and nerves. It causes weakness that gets worse over time.

There’s no cure for MND, but there are treatments to help reduce the impact it has on a person’s daily life. Some people live with the condition for many years.

MND can significantly shorten life expectancy and, unfortunately, eventually leads to death.

Symptoms of motor neurone disease

Symptoms of motor neurone disease happen gradually and may not be obvious at first.

Early symptoms can include

-weakness in your ankle or leg – you might trip, or find it harder to climb stairs

-slurred speech, which may develop into difficulty swallowing some foods
a weak grip – you might drop things, or find it hard to open jars or do up buttons

-muscle cramps and twitches
weight loss – your arms or leg muscles may have become thinner over time
difficulty stopping yourself from crying or laughing in inappropriate situations

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