Stevenage 'deeply saddened' as fan dies driving home from match
A minute's applause will be held before Saturdays match, in memory of 'dedicated fan' Ollie Gatfield
Stevenage Football Club say they're 'deeply saddened' by the passing of 19-year-old supporter Ollie Gatfield.
In a statement, the club expressed profound grief over the tragic loss of Ollie, who's described as a dedicated East Terrace member who lost his life in a car accident following Stevenage's away win at Shrewsbury Town over the weekend.
Hertfordshire Police said a white Volkswagen Polo was travelling towards Stevenage, when it left the carriageway and a car hit a tree on the A602 in Hitchin shortly before 20:40 GMT on Saturday.
They are appealing for anyone with dashcam footage to come forward.
Stevenage issued a heartfelt message, stating, "Our thoughts are with Ollie's family during this difficult time." In a show of solidarity and respect, a minute's applause will be observed before the next game. Stevenage Football Club extends the invitation to both Stevenage and Barnsley supporters, encouraging them to join in paying tribute to Ollie's memory.
The statement also conveyed the club's wishes for strength and recovery for another fan, Liam Sharpe, who remains in a coma after the same tragic accident.
Fan groups also say they'll be holding a minute's applause in support of Liam Sharpe in the 19th minute of the game, as he continues his recovery.
Since the news, tributes continue to be aid over social media for Ollie, as well as well wishes for Liam.