The Pitching In Isthmian Football League

Colin Puplett R.I.P.

14 Mar 2024 By Ian Townsend

South Park Reigate announce the passing of their President

South Park Reigate have released the sad news that their President, Colin Puplett, an ever-present at the club for more than four decades, has passed away. They explained:

'It was with deep sorrow that we heard of the recent passing of our President, Colin Puplett.

Colin had been involved with the football club and Sports Association for 40 years. Initially with our Junior section, he was involved in the management of his son, Richard’s team. Colin took the referees course so that he could step in if required if they did not have an appointed referee.

Colin also filled the roles of fixtures secretary, secretary and Chairman of the Junior section. Whilst with our Junior Section Colin was also on the management committee of the Horley Youth League where he managed one of their representative teams. He later took the role of chairman and when this league merged with the Crawley Youth League he took on the role of Chaiman of the new league, a position he held for a number of years.

Colin later joined the Senior section management committee and soon became Chairman a position he held until 2017 when he became President.

When Colin retired in 2006 he took on the role of Groundsman and there was barely a day that he would not be found at the ground. This coincided with the building of our new changing rooms and installation of floodlights, Colin worked tirelessly to ensure all our pitches and surrounding areas were in the best condition possible.

Having relinquished his role with the Crawley Youth League Colin became Chairman of the Redhill & District Football League and only gave up this position a couple of years ago.

Alongside all of this Colin was also Chairman of the South Park Sports Association. Whether it be chairing the monthly meetings or helping with social and fundraising events Colin was always one of the first to offer his support. Included in this were many 6 AM starts on a Sunday morning for the Association car boot sales.

Colin took an active interest in all of the teams at the club whether it be the youngest of our junior teams, the girl’s section through to the 1st team and the Vets. We will all have our own memories of Colin, seeing him enjoy the successes of our various teams or enjoying the numerous end of season tours he went on.

Colin’s funeral will take place on Tuesday 19th March at 2.00 pm at the Surrey & Sussex Crematorium, Balcombe Road, Crawley RH10 3NQ and thereafter mourners will return to our clubhouse .

Our thoughts are with Julie, Richard, their family and friends and all who new Colin at this sad time.'

Our love and condolences go out to Colin's family, friends, and to all at the club. He very much was Mr Sparks, and will be greatly missed.

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