PREMIER Division and FA Cup champions North Village will honour their most dedicated fan on Sunday by presenting a new award in her name to the footballer who has shown the most dedication in the season.

Marie Romaine had followed the fortunes of North Village since the club was founded. In fact, her late husband, Henry (Sheik), was one of the founding members of Village.

And although Marie died at the beginning of March this year at the age of 85, her name will continue to live for those who play and follow the club.

"She watched North Village in all kinds of weather - rain, blow or shine," said her daughter Ingrid Romaine. "She was Village's most dedicated fan and that is why the award is going not to the best player or the one who scored the most goals in the season, but rather to the player who has shown the most dedication."

So dedicated was Marie that every time Village won any of the numerous titles and cups they have over the years, she would always be there for the victory parades with fans and players driving around the island cheering and honking their horns.

"She really loved North Village," said her granddaughter Andrea Talbot. "The club was the love of her life. My grandfather also helped found Village."

Henry and Marie Romaine had three sons and all played for Village. Andrea Talbot said: "In fact, my father Howard (Boxhead) was North Village's first captain. And my uncle Milgrove still plays for Village in the Commercial League."

While Marie's husband Henry died many years ago, she kept the flame burning for the club.

"And everyone at the club just loved her. The day she died, March 2, they had a game at Bernard Park and they held a minute's silence for her. They really loved and respected her," said her granddaughter.

Marie was buried at the Heard Chapel AME Church in Pembroke on March 7 and the place was packed - and not surprisingly with many Village players and fans.

Her daughter Ingrid added: "My mother and father passed on their love for not just football but anything to do with North Village to their children and grandchildren."

Granddaughter Andrea Talbot added: "This family is North Village. In fact, I have a daughter now that plays netball for Village."

The award for the Most Dedicated Player will be given on Sunday during North Village's annual prize presentation at Devonshire Rec.