Ebbsfleet United learn of the passing of former striker Jim Towers…

The Fleet were saddened to learn of the death of one of the club’s former sons late last week. Jim Towers, 76, died after a long illness, leaving a wife Betty and three children – Mark, Richard and Maxine. His funeral will take place at Mortlake Crematorium on Tuesday September 28, at 2pm. Those wishing to send flowers are invited to do so.

Born in Shepherds Bush in April 1933, Jim arrived at Stonebridge Road in July 1965 and spent three years at the Fleet until his retirement at the end of the 1967-68 season. He scored a highly impressive 46 goals in 77 appearances, a record which drew comparisons to Nineties legend and club record goalscorer Steve Portway from fans who remembered him.

Jim had enjoyed a successful career at Brentford, playing at Griffin Park between 1951 and 1961, signing professional just before leaving for Germany to do his army national service. He racked up 153 goals in 263 games – a record goals haul for Brentford – alongside another hotshot striker, George Francis, who himself managed 124 goals. The two were nicknamed the ‘Terrible Twins’.

He moved on to play for both Queens Park Rangers and Millwall before joining Gillingham for