The Guesty Fund

It is always sad when we lose one of our own, and sadder still when they are taken from us far, far too soon.

Martyn Guest was a goalkeeping legend, particularly at Bowers and Pitsea but also with the likes of Brentwood Town, Witham Town and- very briefly during a goalkeeping crisis- Hashtag United, and last week he passed away after battling with leukemia. There followed an outpouring of grief from across our league, and even messages from the likes of Lincoln City- Bowers opponents in the FA Cup First Round last season.

His manager at Bowers, Rob Small, paid an emotional tribute on social media:

I don’t want to write this and I’m not ready to say goodbye. I can’t believe you’re really gone. You fought to the very end and I don’t know anyone strong enough to put up a fight like you did. I’m so privileged to have had you in my life and called you my friend.

Thank you for everything. You touched so many lives and I’ve never come across anyone with anything but pure love and respect for you. Sleep well mate.'

Alongside the tributes, the football community has come together to support Martyn's family, left without a husband and father. The aim was to raise ten thousand pounds, but so far more than forty thousand pounds has been donated- and if you would like to add to the total, you can do so by heading here.

Rest in peace, Martyn. You'll always be an Isthmian legend.

Image courtesy of Nashy Photo.

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