BLACKFIELD & LANGLEY say they are “broken” following the death of co-assistant manager Chris Farrell earlier today.

As right-hand man to Glenn Howes at the Gang Warily, Chris played a major role in the Watersiders winning the Sydenhams Wessex League title last season.

His knowledge and passion for non-League football was second to none and he was immensely proud of the club’s progress in their maiden Southern League campaign which sees them sitting top of the Evo-Stik Division One South.

A statement released by Blackfield & Langley this afternoon said: “It is with deep sadness that we inform you of the passing of Chris Farrell. Chris suffered another heart attack and died this morning.

“All our love and thoughts go to Chris’s wife Nicky and his family and friends.

“He will forever be part of the club. We are broken. RIP Fazza.”

News of Chris’s death has saddened the local non-League family.

AFC Totton’s Dave Allen tweeted: “Absolutely gutting news. Thoughts go out to his family, friends and everyone @bandlfc He loved that club!”

Blackfield’s neighbours Fawley AFC tweeted: “Terrible news, our thoughts are with his family, friends and everyone at B&L.”

Chris arrived at Gang Warily seven years ago, joining then manager Ashley Vickers in saving Blackfield from relegation and steering them towards their first Wessex Premier title the following season in 2012/13.

He had previously had spells with Hamworthy United and Bournemouth Poppies in the Sydenhams Wessex League.