Tributes have been paid to Isle of Wight football legend John ‘Simmo’ Simpkins, whose death was announced last week.
As a teenager, John sprang to prominence after his display in the 1987/88 Wessex League Cup Final for East Cowes Vics, a club that became close to his heart.
He quickly went on to play for Bashley, Salisbury, Basingstoke and Newport at Southern League level.
John was frequently described as a legend in Island football and during his playing days, he was a top-class goalkeeper and is at the forefront of a host of quality keepers from the Island – and was also a very talented cricketer.
After retiring from his lengthy playing career, John was heavily involved with both Newport and Vics and actually made a Wessex League appearance for Vics in his early 50s.
John helped run Newport as its club secretary before joining the Vics committee and, at one point, took charge as temporary manager.
After leaving Vics, John returned to Newport to help out as part of the coaching team.
A spokesperson for East Cowes Vics said: “John will be greatly missed by all who knew him, and Island football has lost one of its stalwarts.
“Sympathy and condolences are extended to his family and friends.”
Newport chair John Davies said: “On behalf of Newport FC, I wish to send the condolences and the thoughts of everyone connected with the club to the family and friends of John ‘Simmo’ Simpkins.
“We hope they all realise just how loved and respected he was by everyone connected to our club and how much he will be missed.”
House Rules
We do not moderate comments, but we expect readers to adhere to certain rules in the interests of open and accountable debate.
Read the rules here