The local soccer world is mourning the passing of one of its best-loved personalities.

Ray Scott, who worked alongside Frankie Banks at Southend United in the Community, died in a Kent hospital early on Saturday morning after suffering a stroke nearly a week earlier when returning to the coach after watching a concert at Leeds Castle.

Ray, 59, was a well-known local player who, after being with Blues as an apprentice, was with Basildon United and Chelmsford City.

After a spell as joint manager with the village clubs in their intermediate days, Ray went on in recent times to be coach to Alan Hull at Ryman League side Great Wakering Rovers for over two years until midway through last season.

One of Ray's last visitors in Maidstone Hospital the evening before his death was newly-appointed England Under-21 boss Peter Taylor.

Published Monday July 12, 2004

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