The unofficial AFC Rushden & Diamonds messageboard

Anyone who needs to talk through issues surrounding today's awful news, in complete confidence, can phone me on 01646 603928 or 07979 790424, or can e-mail me at alandjenkins@yahoo.co.uk.

I'll try and set up a some kind of dedicated online chat as well, if there's a need.

Don't be alone with this, or minimise its effect on you: if you need a listening ear, I'm on the other end of a telephone.

I'm sure I have the support of the Club for this initiative, and I'm sure Canon Roger Knight will have his hands full with the team for the next few days and weeks.

Alan Jenkins
Fans' Chaplain

Thank you, it seems everybody is in total shock. So very sad.

I've had this message from Ted, our erstwhile foe from Sickfields, who can't post on this board:

"As you probably know, I'm unable to post on the Diamonds forum. I saw that you had published this email address on the forum and thought I'd take the opportunity to express my thoughts regarding this tragic news.

When something like this happens it supercedes everything else.Trivial matters like football rivalries pale into insignificance after such an occurance.With all my heart I express my sincere condolences to the family and friends of Dale and to Rushden & Diamonds football club, it's team, management and supporters.I sincerely hope that you can all draw comfort from your faith at this sad time.

Yours sincerely

Ted."

I've had another message, this time from an Oxford United fan:

Dear Alan

I am writing to offer my deepest sympathy to the family of Mr Roberts, to Rushden & Diamonds FC and to your supporters at this very sad time.

As an Oxford United supporter and football fan, I watched Mr Roberts play on a number of occasions - each time he showed a great deal of ability and professionalism. This sudden death will be a huge blow for the world of football.

Please pass on my thoughts to all those that knew and loved Mr Roberts at this terribly difficult time.

Kind regards

Jamie Clutterbuck - Oxford United fan
Head PGA Professional
The Springs Hotel and Golf Club
Oxfordshire

Another message from supporters:

"Hi Alan

Hope it is OK to convey our condolences through you to Dale's family and friends. He was a great guy and was many of the fans' favourite.

Although it's difficult today to see beyond the sorrow
May looking back in memory help comfort you tomorrow.

In sadness
Chris and Chris Lockwood"

Another message:

"Dear Alan,

On behalf of the Munster Branch Nottingham Forest Supporters Club, I would like to pass on my sincere condolences on the sad death of Dale Roberts.

His family and friends are in our prayers at this sad time.

Best regards,

Gearoid Lynch,
Branch Treasurer."

And another:

"Good Evening Sir

I am a Leeds United supporter from here in Fuerteventura in the Canary Islands and as normal when finishing work check out the sports site at the BBC for daily news.I would appreciate it if you would pass on my deepest condolences to the family and friends of Dale.This is when football and sports fans are hit hard.Such a hard time ahead for family,friends and the club.RIP Dale.Remembered by a football fan.

Kind regards
steve.farren"

And another:

"Hello,

Just wanted to express my deepest sympathy to all of you at R&D, and to the family of Dale Roberts after this tragic incident.
I am a Grimsby Town fan, but obviously this transcends any football issues, and I'm sure that I speak on behalf of all Mariners when I say that we are truly sorry for your loss.

Very best wishes,

Steve Roberts"

Red Dragon wrote:And another:

"Good Evening Sir

I am a Leeds United supporter from here in Fuerteventura in the Canary Islands and as normal when finishing work check out the sports site at the BBC for daily news.I would appreciate it if you would pass on my deepest condolences to the family and friends of Dale.This is when football and sports fans are hit hard.Such a hard time ahead for family,friends and the club.RIP Dale.Remembered by a football fan.

Kind regards
steve.farren"

Can I genuinely echo that I have received a lot of PMs on the Leeds board Waccoe to pass on condolences.