A LONG-TERM Wycombe Wanderers steward has died after a shock diagnosis of pancreatic cancer.

Graham Cadle, 62, of Hazlemere died on September 9 at home with his family around him.

He was described as a "very active man" and had only been diagnosed with cancer a few weeks before his death.

Son Adam, 24, said: "It was a massive shock and happened very quickly. It was the first major illness he had had."

Graham was married to Sharon for 37 years and the couple had two children, Dominic, 32 and Adam, 24.

He was due to become a grandfather in just five weeks as Dominic’s girlfriend Hayley is expecting.

Wife Sharon said: "He was very much excited about the baby and was so hoping to be around at the birth."

During his life he worked as a pharmaceutical salesman and met his wife at the pathology labs at Wycombe Hospital .

In his spare time he enjoyed playing badminton, fishing and his work at Wycombe Wanderers.

Son Adam said: "He was my real inspiration and an absolute rock in my life. I’m a very very proud son for what Dad achieved in life and how he was always happy to have a laugh with everyone he met and had time for everyone.

"Dad did not deserve this and he was taken from us too soon. We are all devastated."

Graham had worked as a steward at Adams Park since 1996 and was regularly head steward.

He was known affectionately as ‘Grandad’ around the stadium and acted as a mentor to new stewards when they started out.

Matt Sadler, spokesperson for Wycombe Wanderers said: "Graham was very passionate about Wycombe Wanderers and was always friendly to home and away supporters.

"He was respected by everyone. He always put other people first and had a positive outlook on life."