A football club says its players and staff are "devastated" after a team mate died.

Aylesford Ladies' Danielle Cubitt suddenly passed away yesterday.

The club posted a statement on its Facebook this morning.

It said: "It was unexpected and sudden, which only adds to the shock. Dan featured in both our first and second teams and was a valued member of the club.

"Naturally our thoughts are with her family and partner who is also a player for the club and we ask that their privacy is respected at this delicate moment.

"As and when we have more information we will share what we can.

"Dan will be sorely missed by everyone at Aylesford FC, she was and will always be part of the Aylesford family."

Many have expressed their sympathies, including Larkfield Ladies' FC, which said: "Thoughts are with you from all of us."

Gillingham FC also posted a tribute, saying: "Everyone is absolutely devastated to learn of the passing of Danielle Cubitt.

"Danielle worked in match control at Priestfield and often helped out with community visits across the county.

"Our thoughts and condolences are with her friends and family."

The young player used to be a part of Hampton and Richmond Borough Ladies, which she joined in 2018 as part of the Development squad.

She then took her place in the HRBFC Ladies 1st team, playing as a central defender – under team manager Andy Hatcher, and then his successor, Kat Browne.

In a post on the HRBFC's website, the club said they are "extremely sad" to hear the news, and both Andy and Kat paid a heartfelt tribute.

Andy said: "Dan joined the club as a young player entering women's football.

"A wise head on young shoulders made her a character and a player that was an instant fit with the club.

"Dan was someone who always gave everything she had on the pitch, which is why she was called up so young into our first team.

'She will be unbelievably missed and remembered for the determined and passionate star that she is...'

"This is a really sad loss, and my thoughts and prayers are with those close to her."

Kat added: "We've lost a special part of our HRBL family and all are heartbroken at this tragic news.

"Danielle was an integral part of both our Development squad and First team, both on and off the pitch over the years as she made her first steps into women's football with us.

"She will be unbelievably missed and remembered for the determined and passionate star that she is."

Aylesford FC has announced the upcoming matches on Sunday, September 4, are postponed.