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Lenham Wanderers FC remember Reece Watson, from Maidstone, who died in a crash on the M26

A youth football team will hold a one minute silence before a match today, in tribute to their manager who died in a crash on the M26.

All Lenham Wanderers FC teams are observing a one minute silence followed by an applause at matches this weekend in memory of Reece Watson, 22, from Maidstone.

Reece with his step-dad Steve and brothers
Reece with his step-dad Steve and brothers

Mr Watson, one of four brothers and a former Swadelands pupil, died in a crash on Thursday, October 15, near Wrotham.

David Boaler, 42, from Sutton Valence, was travelling in the same van as Reece when it collided with a lorry and also died at the scene.

A third occupant was taken to hospital and he remains in a serious but stable condition.

Mr Watson, who lived in Ringlestone with his partner Emily, co-managed the Lenham Wanderers Under-15s, who his younger brother played for.

He also refereed junior matches and helped with the training of the young development squad.

Reece Watson with his partner Emily Butler
Reece Watson with his partner Emily Butler

The Under-15's team are playing at 2pm today at Leeds Playing Field, against the Loose Lions.

In a statement on Facebook, the club said all team will take part in a minute's silence followed by applause this weekend in memory of Mr Watson.

Last weekend, it cancelled all matches following the news.

In an earlier post, the club played tribute to Mr Watson, saying: "He was a kind, caring young man with a lifelong passion for football.

"Reece will be remembered fondly as someone who loved the game, and gave his time and support so enthusiastically to the club.

"It is a contribution that Lenham Wanderers will never forget and it was a privilege to have him in our football family."

All spectators at the Under-15's game today are required to adhere to coronavirus restrictions and social distance.

The club has warned that if too many people arrive to watch there may be a need to restrict numbers, and parents of players take priority.

The Wanderer's Facebook page will be updated during the match so people can follow the game.

Earlier this week, Mr Watson's mum, partner and best friend played tribute to the West Ham United fan, describing him as their "rock", who was loved by many.

A fundraising page started by Mr Watson's aunt and grandmother has raised more than £9,000.

The money will pay for funeral costs and also a memorial in the Lenham Wanderers grounds, in Old Ham Lane.

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