Friends and team mates stood in the streets to pay their final respects to a dad and amateur sportsman who died aged just 43.

As Matthew Scott's funeral procession passed through East Malling to the crematorium on Monday, mourners held cricket bats aloft, pints were raised and his football team wore their match kit in a touching tribute.

Mr Scott, from Ditton and a father to 18-year-old twins Tom and Oliver, died on Boxing Day from a brain tumour, 15 months after he was diagnosed.

Tributes have been paid to Mr Scott- known to many as Matty- who grew up in East Malling, and played football for Town Malling football club and Sunday league outfit East Malling as well as cricket for Addington and Offham.

Friend Lisa Tolley, who described Mr Scott as "a true East Malling legend" and Mr Scott's brother Neil have raised more than £22,000 for the charity Brain Tumour Research by running two miles a day throughout January.

Mr Scott's wife, Tracy, said: “Our world was turned on its head 15 months before we lost Matthew when we were told he had a terminal illness.

“He had a beautiful send-off on Monday and I am happy he is at peace now. Matthew was a great big, strong and caring man right up until his last few weeks.

"He was always more concerned about me, the boys and his wider family and never wanted to be a burden.

“I knew I had a special husband, but seeing his friends outside his local, The Rising Sun, with pints of Stella in their hands, Matty’s favourite tipple, as well as cricketers from his teams at Addington and Offham with their bats in the air and his football team in their East Malling kit was amazing and got me quite emotional.

“Matthew had his own roofing company and, after his diagnosis, he went ahead with an extension to our house to make sure we had a comfortable home after he had gone.

"I saw many of the tradespeople who helped on the build, lining the funeral route, as well as families who have become good friends through Oliver and Tom.

“We are very lucky to be so well supported by family and friends. We’ll miss Matthew for ever. He was one of life’s good guys.”

Friend Lisa Tolley, speaking about the fundraising efforts, said: “Our legs feel very heavy and a bit sore. Neil had a bad knee anyway, but he has bravely carried on regardless.

"We’re doing this for Matty and to help research into brain tumours so that others diagnosed don’t have to face the news that their condition is terminal.

“I am so pleased and proud of everyone who has donated with such generosity. Sunday won’t be the end of our fundraising for Brain Tumour Research in Matt’s memory.

"His friends and family have exciting plans for golf days, football matches and tea parties, once COVID restrictions end.”

According to Brain Tumour Research, brain tumours kill more children and adults under the age of 40 than any other cancer, yet historically just 1% of the national spend on cancer research has been allocated to this devastating disease.

Charlie Allsebrook, community development manager at Brain Tumour Research, said: “Raising this incredible sum will really help scientists working towards more effective treatments and ultimately a cure for brain tumours.”

To donate to Brain Tumour Research in Mr Scott's memory, click here.

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