The former steward of the Lizard Football and Social Club has agreed an out of court settlement with his former employers to prevent a dispute reaching the courts.

Village postman Robin Ford and his wife Michelle have been paid an undisclosed sum by the club, after they threatened the committee with an employment tribunal.

At an extraordinary general meeting it was decided, by a vote of attending members, to pay the Fords a settlement before the issue escalated further. The figure has not been officially confirmed, but is understood to be in the region of £15,000. A previously rumoured figure of £20,000 was “categorically” denied by club chairman Ben Charity. Mr Charity, who said he was prevented from giving any further details, would only confirm: “There was a legal action brought by the Fords and it has now been settled without the need to go to industrial tribunal.”The reason for the threatened action has not been disclosed, but the Packet understands it relates to a dispute over Mr Ford’s employment being terminated.

The Lizard Football and Social Club is the home of Lizard Argyle FC, which Mr Ford used to play for. It has two football teams, plus pool and euchre teams, in addition to hosting a Wednesday lunch for the elderly members of the community.

In a statement Mr Ford said: “Having played football for Lizard Argyle for 35 years, with more than ten of them managing, we did not take the route of employment tribunal lightly.

“Over the last ten years as steward we have put a tremendous amount of free time and our own money into the club.

“Due to the actions of some of the committee, my wife and I were unable to continue as stewards for the club. The last 12 months have been stressful for both of us. I am disappointed that the club has put itself into this avoidable position. We have reached an out of court settlement and received an apology from the club, with them wishing to extend their since apologies for any distress caused by their actions.

“We hope that the new committee can build on what has been achieved over the last five years since the new extension and wish the club all the best for the future. We have also been overwhelmed by the massive amount of support from the club members.”