Jack Parkinson wants to win the Ryman League Premier Division title for his late grandad.

Les Beech died this week after a lengthy battle with cancer. He used to take Parkinson to games as a youngster and the pair were always close.

The Stones midfielder said: “It would be nice to win the league and dedicate it to my grandad. It will spur me on. It was tough seeing him deteriorate day-to-day and the effect it was having on family members, but the best thing is to carry on.

“He’d been very ill for a few weeks. He had lung and kidney cancer and hadn’t been able to talk for three years after having a stroke. Fingers crossed, he’s in a better place now.”

Illness ruled Parkinson out of the Christmas game at Peacehaven but he returned for the New Year’s Day draw against Tonbridge up against brother Tom in central midfield.

Parkinson said: “It’s always difficult playing against your brother, especially when you play in the same position. People don’t understand just how difficult it is when it’s family.

“I was trying to help Tom with certain things, obviously nothing to our detriment but I had a little chat with him when he was getting frustrated.

“I’m disappointed we didn’t hold on because I felt we’d done enough but it wasn’t much of a spectacle.”