A minute’s silence will be held on Saturday as a mark of respect for Phillip Moore, 66, of March, a former chairman of Cambridge City Supporters Club, who died in a three vehicle collision today.

A Cambridge City spokesman said: “Phil was a lifelong supporter of the Lilywhites and had many friends at the club. Always a regular at home games, and many away fixtures Phil was incredibly passionate and loyal to the club and was desperate for City to succeed.

“He would speak to many about his fond memories of years gone by when City would attract several thousand supporters during the 1960’s to their old Milton Road ground, and like many others was looking forward with excitement to the new ground being built at Sawston.”

Mr Moore died when his car was involved in a collision shortly after 5am on the A141 between Chatteris and March: the 34-year-old driver of a tractor involved has been arrested.

A family statement from local publican Ian Woodjetts, on behalf of the family, said: “We would like to say thank you for the kind remarks that people have put in this sad stressful time.

“At the same time I would just like to say to people that are quick to judge and say bad things but we as a family don’t know the full facts of the tragic incident yet; it’s under police investigation.

“Again and on behalf of the Moore family thank you for the kind words and support

Cambridge City vice chairman Terry Dunn, who was a long standing friend of Mr Moore, said “I speak on behalf of everyone connected with Cambridge City when I say how shocked, stunned and saddened we are with regards the tragic death of Phil Moore.

“Phil was known to many of our supporters by first of all being a loyal fan on the terrace but also as chairman of the old supporters club during the 1990’s.

“Phil would often talk about his first visit to Milton Road which was the inaugural floodlight game against West Ham United in February 1959.

“Over the years he would volunteer for various roles at the club and I can remember when I first knew him he would travel all the way from his home in March to do decorating tasks at the club during the summer.”

Mr Dunn said: “He would support social events and also worked as a turnstile operator and loved the big games and would wear his City scarf with great pride.

“He simply loved Cambridge City. He was so looking forward to the new ground at Sawston and I am just so sad and devastated that the club has not just lost such a dedicated supporter, but also one who will not be there with everyone else to see the launch of a new era for the club”.

The vice chairman added: “He was one of the best, a true gentleman who had time for everyone.

“There are no words for his family, friends, and colleagues but we share in their grief and we send our sincere condolences and our thoughts and prayers are with them at such a difficult time”.

There will be a minute’s silence prior to the home game against Sutton Coldfield on Saturday afternoon.

Mr Moore, of High School Close, March, was the driver of a blue Toyota Hybrid, when the collision happened. He was taken to Peterborough City Hospital in an ambulance but died en route.

The driver of a JCB tractor, a 34-year-old man from Chatteris, has been arrested on suspicion of causing death by driving without due care and attention whilst under the influence.

He was taken to Thorpe Wood Police Station where he remains.