THE region’s football community came together this week to remember Charlie Watson.
Hundreds of people, including friends, family, teammates and representatives from local football clubs, gathered at Meadow Park on Tuesday night to pay their respects to the Lochmaben lad.
It’s the home of Threave Rovers and boss Danny Dunglinson led a tribute to Charlie – who sadly passed away last week at the age of 20 after a battle with stage four cancer.
Supporters and the wider community were welcomed to come along to take a moment to remember Charlie, lay flowers or just to pay their respects.
Player Charlie was described as the “life and soul” and “the joker of the pack” at Threave Rovers.
Danny said: “We’ll make sure Charlie will never be forgotten. He’s more than a teammate and he’s more than a player. He’s our friend, brother, our leader, our inspiration and our number four. We’ll love you forever Charlie.”
After Danny’s speech, a minute’s applause was observed because Charlie “didn’t do silences”.
At the centre circle of the pitch – where Charlie was known for making crucial challenges during games – a number of club reps, friends and family laid flowers before the Threave team all took a moment to remember him.
Charlie passed away last Thursday from nodular malignant melanoma. During his treatment Charlie heroically continued to play for Threave, including starring in the televised Scottish Cup tie with Stranraer.
And the team posted a heartfelt message on their Facebook page, saying: “It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our midfielder, Charlie Watson, after his courageous battle with cancer.
“Charlie was more than just a player. He was an absolute warrior, a pillar of our club, and a true inspiration to all who had the privilege of knowing him. His strength, determination, and heart both on and off the pitch defined him, and his loss leaves a void that words cannot fill.
“Charlie’s impact on the club is immeasurable. From his Scottish Cup goal against Vale of Leithen to his extraordinary performance against Stranraer on a famous night that will forever live in our memories, he embodied everything it means to wear our badge with pride. Even after his playing days ended, his absence was deeply felt, as he continued to be a source of friendship, leadership, and unwavering support.
“Our hearts go out to his family who, like Charlie, are an integral part of our club. We will ensure his legacy lives on, honouring his memory in every way we can. The entire club is devastated by this loss, but Charlie’s spirit will forever remain a part of us.”
Queen of the South also paid tribute. A statement read: “Charlie had many friends amongst the players and staff at Queen of the South still, as he did of course at Threave Rovers, Dalbeattie Star and every other club he previously played with. Our thoughts are with all of them, but most especially with Charlie’s mum, Amanda, and the rest of his family.”
Also paying tribute were Lochmaben FC: “Sadly young Charlie Watson has lost the biggest match of his footballing career.
“The lad fought his illness bravely with great courage and maturity despite his very young years.
“Lochmaben FC send their sincere condolences to all his family, friends and footballing family at this extremely heartbreaking time. R.I.P. Charlie a truly great warrior of the beautiful game.”
And Lochar Thistle FC added: “The determination and fight the wee man showed until the very end is truly inspirational.
“All Lochar Thistle’s thoughts are with his family and friends at this very emotional and difficult time. A talented young footballer gone far too soon.”
