Source: ThisisCornwall LINK
TRIBUTES have been paid to one of Truro City Football Club's "most dedicated supporters" who was killed in a car crash at the weekend.
St Austell woman Gillian Alderman, 66, was killed as she travelled home from the club's game with Dover Athletic on Saturday at about 8pm.
She was travelling with two fellow season ticket holders – Bob Fagan and John Salisbury – also from St Austell, when they were involved in a collision on the A303 at Winterbourne Stoke. Police said their car rolled over with the force of the collision.
Rear seat passenger Ms Alderman, who lived near St Austell cricket ground, was injured and died at the scene.
Mr Fagan, 72, who had pelvic injuries, and driver Mr Salisbury, 77, who suffered chest and back pains, were taken to the Salisbury District Hospital.
Both men have since been discharged from hospital.
"They were without a shadow of a doubt the most dedicated supporters of the club – nice, genuine people – and that's what makes it even more tragic," said Truro City Football Club chairman, Kevin Heaney.
"Gillian, Bob and John travelled to all the matches together. They were season ticket holders since I started at the club in 2004 but have been lifelong fans – what I call real supporters.
"They travelled to every single game, home and away, rain, sun or snow, and they were always first there.
"It puts your whole life into perspective. It couldn't have happened to nicer people."
He added: "I know everyone will join me in offering our heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of Gillian and our best wishes to Bob and John for a full and speedy recovery."
A minute's silence will be held in Gillian's memory prior to the team's next home match, against Eastbourne Borough, on Saturday, March 3, at 3pm.
Their Honda was in collision with a black Ford Focus, the driver of which was a 63-year-old woman from Andover, who sustained a fractured right collar bone.
The A303 was closed in both directions for seven hours while police investigated.
Police said everyone involved was wearing seatbelts.
Truro City vice-chairman, Chris Webb said: "Everyone is in complete shock. We just can't believe it."
Speaking on behalf of the team Truro City skipper Jake Ash said: "All the players have just heard the terrible and tragic news about Gillian.
"We can't stress enough how upset we all are by the passing of one of the club's greatest fans.
"She and Bob were always at games, and we never failed to notice, and appreciate, their support.
"They have followed the club all over the country and I had the pleasure of having a chat after the game with them on Saturday.
"They were their usual cheerful and positive selves, both bemoaning our luck before we wished each other a safe journey.
"Thank you Gillian for all your support; an absolute Truro City legend. All the players would like to pass their dearest condolences and best wishes to Bob and the family."
"You could tell Gill was a passionate supporter, she always let the lads know what she thought – good or bad," said Colin Carter, Truro Independent Supporters' Club chairman. "Tragedies like these transcend football."
If you knew Ms Alderman and would like to pay tribute, call 01726 871098 or e-mail clowe@c-dm.co.uk
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