SOUTHEND Rugby Club will today bid farewell to one of their most loyal and likeable characters.

Dave Mathison, who was affectionately known as “Spongie”, has died of cancer aged 74.

And his passing will leave a huge gap at Warners Bridge after more than 40 years of service to the club.

“Spongie helped out in many ways and would run on with his sponge and bucket to treat the first team for 20-odd years,” said Rodney Hawes, a former first team player at Southend.

“It was before the days of professional physiotherapists but he also ran the line at times and, after that, he helped out with the second and third teams along with myself up to last season.

“He was a great guy who everyone liked and he always had a story to tell.

“Most of the time they were the same ones but he’s going to be missed hugely.”

Dave, who lived in Hadleigh, was made a life member of the club for his service and was well known for his spoon-playing abilities.

He forged close friendships with many of his colleagues, including another of the club’s former first team players, Tim Brooking.

“Spongie became an icon for Southend Rugby Club,” said Brooking.

“Even after all these years he is still part of the memories of many many people and he will continue to be so.”

Dave leaves behind wife Jackie, two children and three grandchildren.

His funeral will take place this afternoon at the Southend Crematorium, starting at 2pm, then afterwards at Southend Rugby Club.

Family flowers only have been requested with mourners invited to make donations to the Philip Henmon Foundation, a charity that helps apprenticeships on the river.