Programme tribute to much loved mascot

After one of the most popular faces around the Moatside passed away last Wednesday aged nine, last season's Ryman South play-off winners paid tribute by publishing a special edition of their matchday magazine before Hayden Bird's promoted side kicked off against Leiston at the highest level in their history.

The Moatsiders say the Spaniel will be sorely missed by all their fans, players, officials and directors after following the Surrey club through thick and thin for so long with his owners and club stalwarts, secretary Richard Baxter and his wife Lynn.

Merstham press officer Kevin Austen paid tribute before their 2-0 defeat at home to Leiston on the opening day of the Ryman's top flight campaign.

Austen said: "Since 2006 he had been part of the club, running out with the team and seeing us win the Combined Counties League, promotion to the Ryman Premier and trophies along the way.

"He had visited about sixty different football grounds in his short life and we know he will be missed by all who met him. Not only was he our mascot and pet to club secretary Richard Baxter and his wife Lynn, he also worked with Lynn in the NHS as a Pets As Therapy (PAT) dog.

"Charlie brought a little magic into so many people’s lives and he will be a great loss to all the people he helped along the way to a better future. We have had many kind comments from our friends in and out of football and want to thank you all on behalf of Richard and Lynn."

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