Much-loved former Shrimper, Don Mallows, has sadly died.
Don, who was in his early 90s, managed the reserve team in the late 1960s, joining the club’s committee in 1966. As a qualified FA coach, he was tasked with looking out for young talent.
He also assisted first-team manager Eric Armstrong, often acting as sponge man, and later managed Clacton Town and Parkeston Railway.
In his playing days, Don represented the club at reserve level in the the 1950/51 season.
Current club chairman Tony Armstrong, Eric’s son, said: “Don was a stalwart of the club, someone who worked tirelessly both on and off the field – he lived in King George’s Avenue so would often come across to the ground.
“He was a great fellow, who gave a lot of time to the club and someone who will be sadly missed. I saw him just before Christmas, so his death came as something of a shock.
“As well as the club, a lot of players will be indebted to him for helping them develop and improve.”
Don’s funeral will take place at St Nicholas’ Church in Harwich on February 28 at 11am.
Afterwards, those who knew Don are invited to gather at the HPFC social club to celebrate his life and share memories.