by Jenni Horn

Gillingham FC chairman Paul Scally has spoken of his shock following the death of comedian Dave Lee.

Dave, who died yesterday after a short battle with pancreatic cancer, was a great friend of the club and for several years a non-executive director.

The 64-year-old had appeared at countless Player of the Year awards at Priestfield stadium and was involved in many of the club’s fundraising events.

Gills chairman Paul Scally said: "We are all devastated by this sad news.

"Dave was a great friend of this club for many years and a wonderful character to be around.

"We knew he had been suffering for some time, but he seemed as if he was winning the battle when I saw him last week, so this is really shocking news."

Mr Scally added: "Our thoughts are with his family and countless friends."

In December 2009, when Dave was appearing in pantomime as Tinkerbell, the fun-loving comic sported a pink leotard and tutu to join the Gills in training.

He was a tireless fundraiser for children’s charities and he was awarded an MBE in 2003.

Dave, from Herne near Canterbury, was forced to withdraw from a role in panto at Christmas due to his poor health.

Picture: Barry Goodwin