Tributes have been flooding in for “legendary” Dover photographer Simon Harris who has died, aged 66.

Mr Harris was a popular figure at Crabble, covering both home and away first-team matches.

In 2010, he remarkably attended his 1,000 consecutive Dover game and he had a spell as chairman of the Dover Athletic Supporters Trust too.

“Dover Athletic Football Club is in mourning today after the sudden passing of our legendary club photographer Simon Harris,” a club statement on Friday read.

“An immensely popular figure over so very many years, Simon, who was 66, was a well-known face at the club, attending both home and away matches to capture all the first-team action.

“Simon also spent time as Chairman of the Dover Athletic Supporters Trust and, in 2010, he set an unbelievable milestone by attending his 1,000th consecutive Dover Athletic game.

“No job was too big or too small for Simon and, come rain or shine, he ensured he made the day for hundreds of children over the years by taking photos of the match-day mascots on the pitch at Crabble.

“The thoughts and prayers of everyone at the club are with Simon’s wife Tina, his son Kevin and (his) wife Rachel, his daughter Laura, his family, and all his many friends at this very sad and difficult time.”

There was a one-minute silence prior to Dover’s National League home match against Yeovil, which they lost 2-0, while the home players wore black armbands.

Club legend Dave Leworthy says he had been friends with Mr Harris for decades.

He told KentOnline: "So shocked and saddened to hear about my friend Simon Harris today. (An) absolute gentleman and it was a privilege to be his friend for the last 25-30 years.

"My deepest sympathy to Tina, Kevin and Laura and to all associated with the great club that is DAFC.

"He will be sadly missed..."

"He will be sadly missed by everyone around the football family world. RIP my friend."

Many also remembered Mr Harris fondly on Twitter.

Dover midfielder James Caton Tweeted: “So so sad! RIP Simon! Awful!

"Another taken too soon.”

Former Whites first-team coach Darren Hare added: “Really sad news x, my sincere condolences.”

Defender and former Dover skipper Kevin Lokko, now at Aldershot, said: “Sad to see this, such a gentleman. RIP Simon.”

Ex-goalkeeper and player-coach Lee Worgan, now at National League South Eastbourne Borough, said: “Such sad news! What a top man Simon was - thoughts are with his family.”

Former Whites assistant Steve Nolan commented: “Such sad news, (he) did so much for Dover Athletic and a real gentleman.

“Always saw a positive at the club when things were not going well.

“Sincere condolences to Simon’s family.”

Meanwhile fans' favourite Adam Birchall said: “So sorry to hear this.

“My thoughts are with all his friends and family. He was such a lovely man.”