GRAYS Athletic have announced the death of midfielder Ernie Cooksey from cancer at the age of 28.
The former Oldham, Rochdale and Boston player passed away in the early hours of today.
A club statement read: "Ernie will always be fondly remembered by all those who he came in contact with.
"On the pitch Ernie always gave 100 per cent and was a true gentleman off the pitch, he always found time to talk with the fans and has made many friends."
The statement continued: "Our thoughts and prayers are with Ernie's partner Louise and family at this sad time."
Cooksey had developed a form of skin cancer and was diagnosed with a recurrence of a malignant melanoma in February 2008.
Please pay your tributes to Ernie here.
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