THE family of former Shrivenham boss Dave Turner has thanked those in the non-league community and beyond for their support since his death last week.

Dave, who also managed Wootton Bassett and Pewsey Vale in the Hellenic League, passed away aged 52 following heart complications in the early hours of Tuesday morning.

A keen long-distance cyclist who also kept himself fit in the gym, Dave was discovered to have suffered from cardiomyopathy, the measurable deterioration of the heart, following his death.

In a statement passed to the Advertiser on behalf of the family, Dave’s widow Trish explained that they had been extremely touched by the support they had received.

The statement read: “We have been completely overwhelmed with the response from everyone.

“We have been inundated with cards, messages, phone calls and flowers.

“The coverage in the Adver has been phenomenal, along with the comments and posts on social networks.

“Dave was so many things to so many people and not only in football - although that was his greatest passion.

“His work colleagues and his army, running, cycling and gym buddies and all our wonderful friends have been a fantastic support for us.

“Boys that he coached over 20 years ago to ones that have only just joined him this season have been so generous in their thoughts and feelings.

“They have been a fantastic support for his sons Alex and James.

“We would also like to thank Shrivenham and all the other local football clubs for their support at this time.

“We are heartbroken, but as a family, including Dave's mum, brothers Mick and Rich and sister Debbie, we are bursting with pride for the wonderful man and so humbled by all the comments.

“He was a big man with a massive personality and gave 100 per cent to everything he did.

“Not everyone loved him, but most respected him for his passion, dedication and commitment.”

Shrivenham Football Club paid tribute to Dave on Saturday.

The first-team game against Abingdon United at Barrington Park was called off due to a waterlogged pitch, and with the reserves also not in action, players and officials were able to descend on the club to celebrate Dave’s life with members of his family.

Current Shrivenham player Sam Collier, a close friend to Dave, gave a speech and there was a minute’s applause to commemorate the former manager.

The family plan to set up a memorial fund in the wake of the tragedy.

Dave’s funeral is due to take place on Monday, February 24 at Wroughton Parish Church (1.15pm).

That will be followed by a private cremation for family members only.

Later in the afternoon, mourners can meet at Swindon Town’s Legends Lounge to celebrate Dave’s life.