FOOTBALL players, managers and coaches from across the local non-league scene paid tribute to Dave Turner yesterday following the Shrivenham boss’s untimely passing.

Luke Sharps, who played under Turner at Pewsey, Wootton Bassett and Shrivenham, said: “I am devastated. He has been a friend of mine for 10 years, and I was his assistant manager for a time.

“I will always remember his professionalism. He was straight talking, and would always tell you how it was, which is a great attribute. He was just a top bloke and a really nice fella.”

Local player Adam Collier wrote: “Dave Turner was a true gentleman and one of the nicest blokes I have met. He was one of mine and my brother’s first ever coaches at Wroughton Juniors. My thoughts are with Dave’s family at this difficult time.”

Colleague Ed Faber said: “Dave Turner, a great big guy, full of fun and a perfect gentleman. Dave will be missed by us all. Our thoughts go out to his wife and children at this sad time.”

Shaun Carter, who played under Turner at Wootton Bassett, said: “Dave helped me grow up on the football pitch and also off the pitch which is undoubtedly more important, we chatted frequently, argued and debated more than once and laughed far more than once with him also.

“I was the player he dished out his last manager’s player of the year award to and I will cherish that award far more now than I have previously.”