Frank was a well known face around the club, first playing for the club as a goalkeeper in 1985/86, signed by then manager Des Davies. He was also the goalkeeping coach in the mid 2000s including the 2006/07 League and League Cup double winning season, a team which included current Chairman Ant Follows and trainer Gil Preece. For many years Frank became a regular supporter, season ticket holder, sponsor and fundraiser at the club together with his wife Sam.

Frank will be remembered for his calm demeanour, and particularly his articulate, inspirational and motivational words and posters. Frank and Sam built tremendous friendships at the club where he will be sadly missed and remembered by his closest footballing friends, Pete and Alma Davies, John Williams and Bill Hindley.

In his own inimitable and articulate way Frank had prepared a text message to be sent to all his family and friends on the morning of his death. In Saturday's matchday programme, Frank's last personal message announcing his passing was reproduced, as were some tributes from two of his closest Darlo "family". They are all reproduced below.

Frank's personal message-

" Hi everyone,
It's Frank here..... just letting you know I've finally signed off this morning. Before you get too upset, don't worry, I've had a great run and I've been lucky enough to have some brilliant people in my life.

I've got to say how much my family meant to me, they were my world and I couldn't have been prouder of them. Thank you all for the laughs, the football chats, and the memories over the years. Whether it was shouting at the telly over Man Utd or keeping up with Darlaston Town, those moments meant everything to me.

I suppose now its my time to get back between the goalposts and have a kickabout in the Theatre of Dreams again. I'll be keeping an eye on things from there. Do me a favour, look after each other, keep smiling and if you're having a pint make it a good one and think of me. Try not to argue about football as I won't be there to settle it anymore.

All my love, Frank "

Frank made some wonderful friendships at Darlaston and what he meant to all, is best summed up by two fellow supporters. Firstly John Williams reflects -

" Darlaston Town and football have lost a great club servant and supporter of non league football. On the field and off the field Frank gave his all for his club. Even when his career ended he was always chatting to younger players encouraging them. Frank had time for everyone young or old.

Travelling to matches together with Frank and Sam, the banter and funny stories of both yester year and present will never be forgotten. I'm sure Peter Kay got the idea for the film "Car Share" from Frank. Wherever we travel in life and see a field or pair of football boots Frank will be there among us. thanks Frank for not only being a friend but part of our Darlo family.

John and Marg Williams xx"

Pete Davies reflected - " What can I say about my Football buddy Frank, we became good friends when he decided to commit his support back to his beloved Darlo. I soon realised that we both shared a passion for the game and Man Utd. Frank and his wife Sam were loyal supporters of the club home and away. After the games we would spend time in the Green Dragon dissecting the teams performance. Frank was always the positive one, never a bad word about anyone, always loyal to the goalkeepers union. He was always prepared to offer his services to the club regardless of his own circumstances. He showed true compassion to myself and my wife Alma when she was going through a tough time, that was the quality of the man. His passing has left a huge hole in many people's lives.

Sleep well my friend. Pierre and the lovely Alma.?"

Frank Twitchen RIP