SUPPORTERS of Basingstoke Town FC are mourning the death of former goalkeeper John Simpkins.

Fans and friends have paid tributes to Simpkins, fondly known as "Simmo," who was a key member of the squad that achieved promotion in the Isthmian League around the 1988-1990 era.

Simpkins also had stints at Newport, East Cowes Vics, Salisbury, and Bashley.

Following his retirement, he remained involved in football by volunteering at Newport, including a stint as club secretary.

READ MORE: Basingstoke football in mourning as two legends pass away

Basingstoke Gazette: John SimpkinsJohn Simpkins (Image: Contributed)

He also served on the committee at Vics, where he even took on a temporary manager role.

Basingstoke Town FC's longtime supporter David Graham remembers Simpkins' dedication and talent. 

He said: "I doubt there will be many more popular players to have played at the club."

Basingstoke Gazette: Torquay match with Basingstoke opening the scoring in a narrow 2-3 lossTorquay match with Basingstoke opening the scoring in a narrow 2-3 loss (Image: Contributed)

"Hugely loved by the fans and every time he pulled off a good save, up went the chant 'Simmo, Simmo' from the crowd."

Simpkins played in the memorable FA Cup second-round match against Torquay in front of a 4,091 all-ticket crowd at the Camrose.

SEE ALSO: Brad Wilson leaves Basingstoke Town

Basingstoke Gazette: From the Torquay matchFrom the Torquay match (Image: Contributed)

David said: "[I] Met John a couple of years back when he came up from the Isle of Wight to take part in one of the Save the Camrose protests. We reminded him of the Simmo chant and he replied modestly - 'I did not hear that too often then'." 

Simpkins was also truly dedicated as he used to travel up from the Isle of Wight for Basingstoke Town's matches. Midweek games meant he was rushing to catch late ferries back.

David added: "A very sad day for Basingstoke Town. RIP John."