Wiltshire football figures united this week as the county game mourned the loss of one of its most popular managers.

Former Wootton Bassett Town and Pewsey Vale manager Dave Turner died on Tuesday, aged 52.

The father-of-two, who was bossing Hellenic League Shrivenham, died as the result of a heart attack.

Turner was in his first season in charge of Shrivvy after overseeing two promotions and the club’s longest-ever runs in the FA Cup and FA Vase during a five-year spell at Bassett.

Before that, he spent three years in charge of Vale, with the club then plying its trade in the Hellenic League, and again worked his cup magic as the Ball Road outfit twice got to the first round proper to equal their best-ever Vase run.

Bassett chairman Andy Walduck paid tribute to his former manager, saying: “Dave was devoted to football, giving five years to our club.

“We experienced the highs and the lows with him as our manager.

“At all times Dave would protect his players regardless, not frightened to confront an issue or to say his piece, as only Dave would.

“On occasions we would question his decision-making, but nine times out of ten we were wrong and he was right.

“The FA Cup run in 2012 was a fantastic achievement for Dave and his team. I remember the excitement within him and the team as they pushed aside sides from higher leagues, taking everything in their stride.

“Dave would always share a drink with you after the game, win, lose or draw - he added to the history of our club which will never be forgotten.”

Chippenham Town manager Mark Collier had a spell assisting Turner at Bassett in 2011 while son Sam also spent a number of seasons under the respected boss.

“It’s absolutely shocking news for his family and everybody in local football,” said Collier.

“You’d never meet a more enthusiastic local manager and I’m sure a lot of people will be offering their condolences, just like I will.”

Swindon Supermarine manager Dave Webb added: “The majority of people Dave touched – in life or through sport – would say he was a real nice guy and he’ll be very sadly missed.

“In all the dealings I’ve had with Dave he’s been a pleasure to deal with. He’s a great gentleman, a lovely man, he believed in doing things properly.

“He had his way of doing things and always believed he did things the right way.”

Swindon Town academy and Chippenham goalkeeping coach Steve Hale added: “Dave was a passionate football man, who was also respectful and very well-organised, and went about his business in the right way, treating people well along the way.”

Turner is survived by his wife Trisha and sons Alex, 24, and James, 22

FOR MORE SPORTS NEWS, REPORTS & PICTURES SEE THURSDAY'S GAZETTE & HERALD AND FOLLOW US ON TWITTER @gazsport