The following floral tribute to Shildon AFC kit man Neil Edgeley has been delivered to Dean Street today from the West Auckland kit man.

Many thanks from all at Shildon AFC

Neil Edgeley our well liked and respected Kit Man sadly passed away on the 22nd February.

Neil’s funeral will take place on Friday 10th March at Coundon Crematorium at 10 o’clock.

All the club Directors, and I am sure I speak for all the Shildon AFC fans, would like to offer our deepest condolences to Neil’s family at this sad time and our thoughts and hearts are with them.

Neil was hugely respected by everyone that has played for the club and I am sure everyone will always remember his dry sense of humour.

Daniel Moore, Shildon AFC Manager, tweeted

 On behalf of all the players and staff at Shildon AFC football club our heart felt sympathy goes out to Neil’s family and friends at this sad time. Neil was a true gentleman and was a massive part of not just the football club but also the dressing room, from sorting the kit to clubbing in Newcastle this man captured all the players hearts and will be a massive miss. Rest in Peace Neil.

Jamie Harwood, Shildon AFC Captain, tweeted

RIP Neil will be missed mate wonderful guy x

Marc Ellison, Shildon AFC player, tweeted

One in a million. Rest in peace my mate x x x x

Brian Burn, Shildon AFC Vice President, tweeted

Tonight is a very sad time for Shildon AFC as our well respected kit man passed away rest in peace Neil top man

Billy Greulich-Smith, Shildon AFC Vice Player, tweeted

Absolutely gutted! Without doubt one of the nicest men I’ve ever met! RIP Neil