Rivals unite in double tribute

Ryman League Dereham Town and Tilbury joined together on Tuesday night to pay tribute to two of their club stalwarts who passed away in recent days.

In a show of respect for former Magpies President Jack Wiseman and Dockers Chairman Robbie Nash, players of both sides wore black-armbands and a minute's applause was held at Aldiss Park before the 2-2 Ryman North draw

Wiseman, pictured, known by Norfolk's sporting fraternity as 'Mr Dereham Town', passed away last Saturday aged 85 following a six month battle with cancer. A life-long fan, he will be remembered for enthralling today's younger players with stories of the defences he'd terrorised as a speedy winger in the 1950s.

Club Chairman Simon Barnes said: "Jackie was Mr Dereham Town FC, having played for the club in his early days, then working hard behind the scenes when he had finished his playing days. I know he was very proud when asked to become president in 2007 and held the position until last season when he stepped down due to his on-going health problems.

"Although unable to attend matches of late, he was always sending best wishes to the lads, and when we visited him in hospital the first thing he asked was how the club was doing. He always had a warm welcome, not only to everyone at Dereham Town but also the opposition with whom he always made time to chat. The messages we have received from other clubs has shown how much he was thought of."

The Magpies Chairman added: "Jackie was a tremendous help to me personally, he was always very supportive and in difficult times would make sure to give me encouragement. The lads all loved him and once again were devastated when hearing that he had passed away. Aldiss Park will never be the same without 'Our Jackie'."

Tilbury's former Company Secretary and Chairman Nash, passed away following a heart attack last weekend aged 72. A lifelong fan of the club and father of three, he had been Chairman for more than 25 years following a long and varied career that included service in the merchant navy. Due to his ill health, he finally stood down earlier this year and was succeeded as Chairman at the start of the current season by his son Daniel Nash. His daughter Victoria is also a Dockers Director.

Ahead of Tuesday night's tribute in Norfolk, Tilbury held a minute's silence for their late Chairman before Saturday's 3-0 win over Needham Market in the FA Trophy's Preliminary Round at Chadfields.

In a statement on their official website, the Dockers said: "Robin was a big part of the club and had run the club for many years. However, his health has deteriorated since stepping down from Chairman at the end of last season. The club sends their condolences to Robin's family during this difficult time."