The National League South club announced that Mr Payne had died unexpectedly on October 16, prompting an outpouring of tributes from across the local football community.

In a statement, Chesham United said: “It is with unimaginable sadness that we announce that majority shareholder of Chesham United, Roger Payne, unexpectedly passed away today.

“We are all still in shock and will make further updates as and when appropriate.

“Our thoughts are with Roger’s wife and his family at this moment in time.”

Club chairman Peter Brown led the tributes, describing Mr Payne as a close friend whose influence on the club had been felt both on and off the pitch.

He said: “I have lost such a good friend.

“Chesham United has lost someone very special.”

Mr Brown admitted his first thoughts after hearing the news were about the club's FA Cup fourth qualifying round tie against Forest Green Rovers and whether football mattered in the circumstances.

However, he said he quickly realised what Mr Payne would have wanted.

“He would have wanted the game to go ahead,” Mr Brown said.

“He would have wanted us all 100 per cent concentrated on pulling off an FA Cup shock.

“And although he would never have wanted the recognition, he never did, how wonderful would it be if we could record in the history books that the win, the performance and the occasion were all in tribute to Roger Payne.”

Tributes were paid to Mr Payne before the match at The Meadow on October 17, with players coming onto the pitch ahead of kick-off before a minute's applause and a rendition of Abide with Me, the hymn traditionally associated with the FA Cup.

The tie finished 0-0, earning Chesham a replay against Forest Green. However, the Generals were beaten 5-0 in Gloucestershire on Tuesday night.

Reflecting on Mr Payne's contribution, Mr Brown said the businessman had played a crucial role in shaping the club's future.

He said: “Financially, commercially, strategically, structurally, Roger’s contribution has been enormous, much of it quietly behind the scenes, never looking for thanks or recognition.

“Non-league football has lost someone special.”

Before joining Chesham United, Mr Payne had also been involved with other local clubs including Berkhamsted, Tring and Aylesbury United.

Mr Brown added: “His loss will be felt far beyond The Meadow.

“He will never be forgotten.”

The chairman said the club's thoughts remain with Mr Payne's family as the Chesham United community comes to terms with the loss of one of its most influential figures.