Tributes paid to 'legendary' Dover Athletic club photographer Simon Harris following his death, aged 66

Tributes have been paid to “legendary” Dover photographer Simon Harris who has died, aged 66.

Mr Harris was a popular figure at Crabble, as he covered both home and away first-team matches.

In 2010, he also remarkably attended his 1,000 consecutive Dover game and he was also chairman of the Dover Athletic Supporters Trust.

“Dover Athletic Football Club is in mourning today after the sudden passing of our legendary club photographer Simon Harris,” a club statement on Friday said.

“An immensely popular figure over so very many years, Simon, who was 66, was a well-known face at the club, attending both home and away matches to capture all the first-team action.

“Simon also spent time as Chairman of The Dover Athletic Supporters Trust and, in 2010, he set an unbelievable milestone, by attending his 1000th consecutive Dover Athletic game.

“No job was too big or too small for Simon and come rain or shine he ensured he made the day for hundreds of children over the years by taking photos of the match-day mascots on the pitch at Crabble.

“The thoughts and prayers of everyone at the club are with Simon’s wife Tina, his son Kevin and wife Rachel, his daughter Laura, his family, and all his many friends at this very sad and difficult time.”

There will be a one-minute silence prior to Dover’s National League home match against Yeovil, while players were also due to wear black armbands.

Many remembered Mr Harris fondly on Twitter.

Dover midfielder James Caton Tweeted: “So so sad! RIP Simon! Awful! Another taken too soon.”

Former Whites first-team coach Darren Hare added: “Really sad news x, my sincere condolences.”

Defender and former Dover skipper Kevin Lokko, who is now at Aldershot, said: “Sad to see this, such a gentleman. RIP