GO AD FREE | Get your Digital Subscription for only 50p a week! Use code SUMMER
GET STARTEDMore on KentOnline
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