It is with heavy hearts and deep sorrow that we bid farewell to a true football icon, Dennis Kilford, whose legacy has left an indelible mark on the beautiful game. As a mark of respect, the League is urging all clubs and referees to observe a minute’s silence on Saturday, 13th January, in memory of this remarkable individual.

Dennis passed away peacefully on 31st December 2023, at the age of 89, at the Great Western Hospital after a brief illness. A former Wiltshire Football Association Councillor and a proud Wiltshire Freemason, Dennis was more than just a figure in football; he was a friend to many.

The funeral service to celebrate Dennis’s life will be held at Kingsdown Crematorium on Wednesday, 17th January 2024, at 10:30. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations for Prospect Hospice, a cause close to Dennis’s heart. For further information, please contact A E Smith & Son Funeral Directors at Tel. 01793 522023.

Dennis’s impact on football extended far beyond the pitch. Appointed to the County Association in 1979, he was later honored as a Life Vice-President, a testament to his unwavering dedication. In 2005, he received the Football Association 50 Year Service Award, recognizing his significant contributions to football in Wiltshire as a referee, league officer, and FA official.

While Dennis may not have been directly involved with the District League, some of you may remember him for handling player insurance matters for many years, reflecting his commitment to ensuring the welfare of the football community.

As we pay our respects to Dennis, let us remember the legacy he leaves behind—a legacy of passion, dedication, and genuine love for the sport. The minute’s silence on the 13th will serve as a collective tribute to this extraordinary individual who touched the lives of many.