Manager Jerry Gill pays tribute to long time City fan Dave Mann

Avid Bath City supporter David Mann passed away peacefully at Dorothy House Hospice on 1 April following a long illness.

His funeral took place in Haycombe Top Chapel at noon today for immediate family only.

Bath City manager Jerry Gill attended via video link which he will share with his players and father Jim, who was best friends with Mr Mann.

“Dave was one of the kindest men I’ve ever met,” said Gill. “He was always thinking of others. Every home game at about half past one he’d walk into the dressing room and shake all the players’ hands. He went on a cruise before he became ill and bought them back sweets plus presents for me and Jim (Rollo, assistant manager) from Barbados.”

Gill has remained in touch with Mr Mann’s family and visited the City fan of over 60 years in hospital shortly before he passed away.

“I made him a promise that we’ll have a minute’s silence when we next have a home game.” said Gill. “The sad thing is there won’t be high numbers at the funeral. He’d been in a lot of pain for a few months, he’s been battling a long illness which took its toll on him in the end. Our thoughts and prayers are very much with Dave’s family in this time. May he rest in peace.”

Donations in memory of David to the Urology Department at the RUH and Dorothy House Hospice Winsley if desired can be made directly to both charities online.