Dave hadn’t been a familiar face at Broad Walk for some years, but his connection to the club runs deep. He joined Charlton Park in the early 1980s as a youth player, introduced by John Hughes alongside a group of lads from Thomas Tallis School.

He quickly became an integral part of a talented Colts side that reached the Kent Cup Final, drawing an unforgettable encounter against Westcombe Park. Many from that team went on to form the backbone of the senior squad that helped lift Charlton Park through the leagues to the heady heights of National League 4 South.

Charlton Park sends its love and heartfelt condolences to Dave’s family and friends, and especially to his mum, Sylvia, who is remembered at the club with great fondness.

A short poem in his memory

When a life slips quietly from our sight,
It is not gone, only moved from view.
Like a player stepping from the field,
The game goes on — and we remember.
In every story, every smile,
A part of him stays shining through.

Rest in peace, Dave.