SPORTS clubs in East Kent are mourning the death of 62-year-old Tony ('Pops') Pattenden, a keen soccer player, supporter and physio.

Mr Pattenden died at the weekend after being taken ill at his home in Vale Road, Whitstable. He was actively involved in both football and cricket clubs in the town and also served Herne Bay FC and Canterbury City FC.

Whitstable Town Football Club fixture secretary Bruce Smith, who lived next door to Mr Pattenden, and another neighbour, tried to revive him when he was taken ill, but Mr Pattenden died soon afterwards. He leaves a widow, Val, and two children, Debbie and Steve.

Recalling their 30-year friendship, Mr Smith said: “I met Tony when he played for me in the Naval Reserves side in Whitstable. He played for Hartlepool, but supported Middlesbrough. We used to get on very well, but I was surprised to find out that he was moving in next door six months ago.”

Chairman Joe Brownett said: "I cannot speak too highly of him. What you saw was what you got. Tony was known as ‘Pops’ to everyone. All the players looked up to him."

Mr Pattenden was also a vice-president of Whitstable Cricket Club. The team held a minute’s silence before the Kent League match at Broadstairs on Saturday.

The funeral takes place at Barham Crematorium on Monday, May 19, at 3.30pm, and afterwards at Whitstable Cricket Club. The family request no flowers, but donations to Cancer Research.

FULL STORY IN THIS WEEK'S KENTISH GAZETTE, WHITSTABLE GAZETTE AND HERNE BAY GAZETTE