Former Gillingham kitman Malcolm Stedman dies at the age of 80

Former Gillingham kitman Malcolm Stedman has died at the age of 80.

He died peacefully at home in the early hours of Friday.

Gillingham co-chairman Paul Scally said: "I am absolutely devastated to learn of Malcolm's passing.

"I went to see him at his house two weeks ago and he was very frail, uncomfortable and clearly not well.

"His death is sudden and very sad. He was a legend here at the club, everyone loved him. He came as a volunteer and turned out to be first-team kit man and we had many, many happy times with him over the years he was here.

"He's been a massive fan of the club, he lives locally and our condolences go out to his family and friends. He is a huge loss and we will all miss him very much."

Popular Malcolm served as kit man for over 15 years, working under previous managers Andy Hessenthaler, Peter Taylor, Ronnie Jepson, Mark Stimson, Martin Allen and Steve Lovell.

Gillingham's fitness and conditioning coach James Russell said: "The football club has just lost a true champion!

"A real special character who will be missed by all of the Gillingham FC family. Thoughts are with Pat and his family."

The club will hold a minute's applause before Saturday's League 2 game at home to Stevenage.