TRIBUTES have been paid to Doug Gillard, a well-known personalty in Kent soccer circles, who has died after collapsing in London.

Mr Gillard, a former chairman of Ashford Town FC, was fanatical about football and was a high ranking member of several footballing bodies.

A former qualified referee, he was vice-president of the Ashford and Weald Kent Referees’ Association, vice president of the Kent County Football Association and chairman of Southern Football Association.

He died at St Thomas’ hospital, his family at his side. He had been to an FA meeting in London when he was taken ill on the return train journey.

Mr Gillard was instrumental in Ashford FC's move from their ground at Essella Road to the Homelands stadium around 15 years ago.

Geoff Stanborough, who served with Mr Gillard in the local branch of the Referees Association and Kent Football Association and was a close friend for 40 years, said he was passionate about local football.

He stressed: It was his passion and he had the drive to motivate people.”

Mr Gillard also represented charing on Ashford council. Gerry Clarkson, of the Conservative association in Charing, said: “Doug will leave a huge hole in the local political scene.

“He was one of those people who was always there in a quiet sort of way. A genuinely nice person, much-loved and respected.”

Mr Gillard and his late wife had four daughters, Elizabeth, Alison, Susan and Margaret.