Tributes paid to Walsall FC fan after cancer death
Tributes have been paid to a Walsall FC fan who died from cancer.
Dave Williams, from Oldbury, was diagnosed with terminal sarcoma in June last year.
Walsall FC led the tributes to the fan, who was sent tickets earlier this year to watch the Saddlers at Banks's Stadium.
The club said in a statement: "Walsall Football Club are devastated to hear that Dave Williams has this morning lost his battle with cancer.
"Dave was a guest of manager Dean Keates earlier this season and the club would like to send their thoughts and prayers to the Williams family at this very difficult time."
Fans took to social media to pay their respects, with one tweeting: "Tragic news. Thoughts with his loved ones. RIP Dave."
Another fan posted: "Hope you win at the weekend for Dave, proud Walsall fan and a great fella. RIP Dave."
Dave, who was a Walsall FC fan for almost 40 years, was sent tickets earlier this year to watch the Saddlers at Banks's Stadium.
His daughter, Chloë Williams, contacted the club for a signed card for her dad.
They were sent the card – along with a letter from Walsall FC boss Dean Keates, who has been affected by cancer himself, and four match tickets.
Chloë said at the time: "Dad just burst out crying when he saw the tickets. He’s emotional anyway at the moment but he couldn’t even get half way though the letter before crying his eyes out.
“Cancer affects the individual and the family and friends so it’s so nice to see Dean Keates doing this for the community, we never expected this to happen."
Dave went to see the team face off against Wycombe Wanderers on October 27.
In the letter, Dean Keates said: “I had cancer affect me during my second spell with Walsall, so I know how tough it can be and I know what you and your family are going through at the moment.
“The staff and I at the club would be delighted to see you at the game in a hope that it brings plenty of good memories back for you.”
