EDDIE DIPLOCK 1931 - 2024

Eddie  - "Mr Sevenoaks Town" sadly passed away on Tuesday aged 93

Eddie served the club as secretary for more than 60 years in a long association with local and county football as a player and administrator - and international football as a volunteer in the media department at Euro 96.

Eddie played football at St Johns Church of England School in the town, and St Johns United when he left at 14, first working for the Post Office as a telegram boy, before joining South Suburban Gas Company as an apprentice gas engineer - where he stayed for 47 years.

National Service saw him join the Royal Engineeers based in England and Middle East playing where he was stationed. On demob he rejoined St Johns United who by now had amalgamated with Sevenoaks FC to become Sevenoaks Town.

He played for the first team for 15 years, and continued to turn out for the reserves and A team playing his last game at the age of 56 - justifiably proud of never being cautioned or sent off in a 30-plus year career.

He was appointed secretary in 1953 - before becoming involved with local football -Sevenoaks Charity Cup, Kent Amateur League, then the Sevenoaks League serving as vice chairman then chairman.

In 2003,he received the prestigious Football Association Medal for 50 years service to the game in the town and county.

He was a long serving member of the Sevenoaks Sports Council, Life President of the Kent County League and received a Kent County Football Association Order of Merit following his retirement at the age of 75.

He was elected President of the Sevenoaks District League and Sevenoaks Charity Cup in 2007, describing it as a "proud honour allowing me to keep in contact with all the friends I made over the years."

Eddie was honoured in 2012 with an award from The Torch Trophy Trust , a charity who recognises and rewards volunteers in sport and recreation, presented to him by HRH The Duke of Kent.

As well as being club secretary he continued to maintain the two grass pitches here at the club, mowing and marking before stepping down in 2015 - honoured with a stand in his name, and being named as Life President.

He also received a letter from the then Football Association chairman Greg Dyke

Speaking at the time, chairman Paul Lansdale said: "Words cannot express the club's thanks and feelings for Eddie,

"He is an amazing man with such a big heart, and a wonderful servant to our club."

Below are some words from Chris Bates about Eddie

An immense pleasure to have known Eddie - such a kind, gentle and generous man. 

In 2007, Eddie was instrumental in the formation of the new Sevenoaks Town Juniors and welcomed the then Seal Juniors into the club. He made us feel part of the club and without his support and guidance we surely would not have grown to the junior section we are today. 

Thanks Eddie for your magnificent contribution to Sevenoaks Town and to Kent football for over 70 years,

You set a fine example to us all

A few of the messages from X (formerly Twitter)

Eddie said to me once , football is a simple game , it’s the managers who make it complicated, very wise words from a true friend , he was a gentleman and I enjoyed so much time with him at Greatness over the years , RIP mr Sevenoaks Town fc

I loved that man I can't tell you how much I will miss you

One of the nicest people I have dealt with - gave some great advice when I started out - a real gent - condolences to Eddie’s family

A huge loss for STFC. Mr Sevenoaks. He always believed in the players. He really supported my journey coming through from the juniors to senior teams plus the Kent youth squads. Always loved his positive attitude and him Saying “alright mate”. RIP Dippy and love to the family.

RIP Eddie, an honour to have known him. Big loss to the football community and to STFC. Thoughts are with his friends, family and all at the Oaks

Ed was certainly a one off, giving up so much time for the benefit of others. Always had a smile on his face, sad news but great memories of a great man.

RIP Eddie, you were the kindest, loveliest, most selfless person I have ever met. You will never be forgotten.