Sittingbourne director Peter Pitts has died following a short illness

Sittingbourne director Peter Pitts has died following a short illness, the club have announced.

Pitts, the twin brother of fellow director John, was a hugely popular figure after many years’ service in a variety of roles.

There will be a minute’s applause before tonight’s pre-season friendly at home to Folkestone (7.45pm).

A Brickies statement said: “Sittingbourne Football Club have heartbreaking news to bring to you all in that Peter Pitts, club director, sadly passed away yesterday morning after a short illness.

“Peter dedicated a huge part of his life to the club and without him the club would not be where it is today.

“Whilst we are still processing this sad and shocking news ourselves, we send our heartfelt condolences to Helen, Graham (Peter’s children), John, Sandra (sister-in-law) and the rest of the family.

“There will be a minute’s applause prior to kick-off for our game against Folkestone this evening.”

Brickies vice-chairman Andrew Marjeram is among those to have paid tribute to club legend Pitts, who lost his wife of 48 years, Jackie, in April.

Marjeram said: “Absolutely devastated on this. Peter was one of the nicest people I’ve had not only the pleasure to meet with – but to work with.

“He has done so much not just for the football club, but from every aspect of his life.

“Without him the club wouldn’t be here today.

“It makes us all even more determined to continue all the hard work Peter has done.

“He will be sorely missed.”

Sittingbourne manager Ryan Maxwell said: “It’s terrible, terrible news - devastating.

“What a lovely man, an absolutely lovely, lovely human being and I’m just double, double sad.

“He was just getting over the loss of his wife as well.

“I’m devastated. He was incredibly nice and