Alex ‘Jibber’ Ives, aged 32, from Chard, passed away peacefully last week after a hard fought battle with illness.

He leaves his wife Lauren and his son Bodhi, his immediate family and also a lot of friends in Chard and at Chard United Football Club.

Jibber, as he was more commonly known as, joined Chard United for the 2011/12 season and had huge involvement in the double promotion that season.

His association with the club spanned over 10 years and during that time he represented all three Chard United sides playing virtually every position.

He was known for his passionate performances and the classic chest thump “come on” chant which would be heard in every game he played.

Jibber was popular throughout the club both on and off the pitch, in his last appearance for the club in September 2021 for the Reserves he gave a characteristic gutsy performance against a strong Charmouth side earning himself man of match.

On behalf of the Chard United Football Club, chairman Steve Scriven said: "The club hasn’t just lost a great player but everyone involved with the club past and present has also lost a great friend.

"There will only ever be one Jibber, we all love and miss you.

"As a club we would also like to extend our condolences to his family in particular his wife and son, Lauren & Bodhi. Anything you need during this difficult time and beyond we are all here to help."

A fellow Chard United player John Furnish, who also helps run the Pancake Pod is organising a “Wear A Hat Day” in association with the Brain Tumour Research on March 25 at Chard B&Q.

For more details on how to get involved please head over to the Pancake Pod Facebook page.

A funeral service remembering Alex's life will take place at St. Mary's Parish Church, Chard on Thursday March 10 at 12.30pm.

Donations, if desired for St. Margaret's Somerset Hospice, may be given at the Service, or though this website www.bgibbsfuneralservices.co.uk.