Tributes pour in after sudden death of former Weston-Super-Mare midfielder

By Jon Couch
WESTON-SUPER-MARE boss Marc McGregor has led the tributes to former midfileder Darren Hawkins, who dies suddenly this week at the age of 33.
The father-of-four graduated from the Bristol City Academy and established himself as a well-known figure in the south-west, also turning out for the likes of Bath City, Mangotsfield United, Bishops Sutton and most recently Shaftesbury Crusade, who he helped lead to the Bristol Premier Combination League title.
Seagulls fans held a minute’s silence for Hawkins before their game with Whitehawk on Saturday, while supporters of Bristol City are planning a minute’s applause for their former player in the 33rd minute of their Championship game with Cardiff City at Ashton Gate on Saturday.
The Gloucestershire FA said it was “shocked and saddened” to learn of the “untimely death” of Hawkins, who openly spoke of gambling and alcohol addictions.
“It is very sad times,” said Seagulls boss McGregor. “I was fortunate enough to play with him at Weston. Our thoughts are with his family and kids and the club wishes him all the best.”
Centre-back Clayton Fortune added on social media: “Saddened by the news of an old team-mate and friend. Fly high mate. RIP Darren Hawkins.”