SOCCER officials, fans and players in Kent and elsewhere are mourning the death of Doug Gillard, chairman of the Southern League.

Mr Gillard, a former chairman of Ashford Town FC, died in hospital following a heart attack. He was 74.

Mr Gillard leaves a widow, Pat, four children and seven grandchildren.

Southern League secretary Dennis Strudwick said: "It is a terrible loss. He was a great ally to the league and to me."