Dergview FC mourns the passing of much-loved president Harold Baxter

Dergview Football Club has been left heartbroken by the death of its president, Harold (David) Baxter, who has been remembered as a footballing legend, a tireless champion of the club and a true gentleman whose contribution to Castlederg will never be forgotten.

Harold, who passed away peacefully at the Royal Victoria Hospital, was a hugely respected figure in the local community and a man whose passion, commitment and dedication helped shape the very identity of Dergview FC.

In a moving tribute, the club said his passing was a deeply sad loss, extending heartfelt condolences to his wife Kathleen, children Louise, Audrey and William, and the wider Baxter family.

Paying tribute to his extraordinary contribution, Dergview FC said Harold would be remembered both on and off the field as one of the greatest footballers to come from Castlederg.

However, it was his unwavering commitment to ensuring the future of the club, through fundraising, advertising, promotion and countless hours of hard work, that earned him a particularly special place in its history.

The club said: "Without Harold's hard work and dedication there simply would be no Dergview today!"

An extended tribute is expected to follow in the coming days.

The heartfelt reaction from across the footballing community and Castlederg has reflected the enormous affection and respect in which Harold was held.

One former teammate described him as a "club legend", not only a fantastic player but an outstanding human being whose vision and forward-thinking approach were second to none.

Another recalled how, as a young player making his senior football debut at just 15, Harold would always look out for him, stepping in when opponents dished out rough treatment.

He also recalled Harold's generosity and business acumen, describing how he helped secure a new site for the club just before the new millennium, negotiating a special price and ensuring the deal was completed at remarkable speed.

He said Harold had been the best of neighbours and friends until a cruel accident, adding that Freughlough Road would never be the same again.

"We have lost the best of the best," he said.

Others spoke of the warm welcome Harold extended to everyone who came through the doors at Dergview, his hearty handshake, friendly conversation and genuine interest in the club's future.

His influence, however, reached far beyond football.

One person recalled knowing Harold through his days as a youth club leader at church, where he gave so much of his time and energy to the young people of Castlederg.

Their paths later crossed again at Dergview, where his passion for both youth and senior football was unmistakable.

Time and again, the same words appeared in tributes – gentleman, legend, friend and a man who always had time for others.

For Dergview FC, Harold was much more than its president. He was one of the driving forces behind the club, a familiar and reassuring presence at Darragh Park and a man who gave so much of himself to ensure generations could continue to enjoy the game.

His loss will be felt deeply by his family, friends, teammates, the club and the wider Castlederg community.

But his legacy will live on in the club he loved and helped build, and in the countless lives he touched along the way.

Harold's funeral arrangements are as follows: His remains will repose at his late home, 10 Freughlough Road, Castlederg today, Thursday from 2pm to 8pm.

A Service of Thanksgiving for his life will take place in Second Castlederg Presbyterian Church on Friday at 1pm, followed by interment in Castlederg Cemetery.

Family flowers only, with donations in lieu, if desired, to Air Ambulance.