Gillingham fans got the chance to say farewell to former captain Max Ehmer on Saturday.

The 33-year-old is leaving the Gills this summer after making 439 appearances for the club. Only five men have played more games for the Gills.

He was paraded in front of fans at Priestfield ahead of the game against Swindon Town on Saturday, receiving a great reception.

Ehmer hasn’t featured for the Gills since Gareth Ainsworth took charge of the team a month ago and under former boss John Coleman he lost the captaincy to Armani Little.

The German defender first joined the Gills in November 2014, signed on loan from QPR. He made the move permanent ahead of the following season.

He spent a season away during the 2020/21 campaign after a move to Bristol Rovers but joined again in 2021 and has been with the club ever since, often captaining the side.

The Gills said: “We would like to thank Max for his outstanding contribution both on and off the field during his time in Kent and we wish him well for the future.”

Prior to the game, Ainsworth said: “He’s been an absolute stalwart. It’s great what he's done for Gillingham.”

Ehmer started this season under Mark Bonner, who said: “It’s rare for anyone to represent one club for as long as Max Ehmer has at Gillingham.

“I’m grateful to him for being a reliable leader in my short time.

“He led by example; putting his body on the line many times, organising in his calm manner & guiding the younger lads. In an era where loyalty is hard to find, he’s been a constant; dependable and dedicated. I wish him success in the future.”