Malcolm Stedman has sadly died at the age of 80.
The Football Club is absolutely devastated to learn of the passing of former first-team kit man, Malcolm Stedman.
Malcolm died peacefully at home in the early hours of Friday morning. He was 80 years old.
He started at the club as a volunteer but served as kit man for over 15 years, working under the likes of Andy Hessenthaler, Peter Taylor, Ronnie Jepson, Mark Stimson, Martin Allen and Steve Lovell.
He was an enormously popular member of staff at MEMS Priestfield Stadium and soon became well known to supporters both home and away.
Chairman Paul Scally said: "I am absolutely devastated to learn of Malcolm's passing. I went to see him at his house two weeks ago and he was very frail, uncomfortable and clearly not well.
"His death is sudden and very sad. He was a legend here at the club, everyone loved him. He came as a volunteer and turned out to be first-team kit man and we had many, many happy times with him over the years he was here.
"He's been a massive fan of the club, he lives locally and our condolences go out to his family and friends. He is a huge loss and we will all miss him very much."
A minute's applause will take place prior to kick-off on Saturday in Malcolm's memory. Our thoughts are with his friends, family and loved ones at this very difficult time.