Peacehaven have paid tribute to chairman Brian Suckling who has died after a battle against cancer.

A club statement read: “The wealth of football knowledge he brought to the club in its hour of need will never be forgotten.

“The legacy of Suckling will always be visible at the Sports Park as his drive and enthusiasm were behind the club’s campaign to raise funds for new stands and essential ground improvements.”

Suckling had been in the post for little more than a year and was previously chairman at his local club Crawley Down for many years.

He also had a spell at Three Bridges.

Peacehaven’s acting club chairman Sue Norwood said: “Everyone at Peacehaven & Telscombe FC is so sad to learn of his passing.

“He was popular with everyone at the club and we benefited immensely from his vast experience of football administration at this level.

“Today is a sad day for everyone who knew him and our thoughts go out to Jane his wife and his family.”