EAST Devon s sporting fraternity is this week mourning the death of sports writer and historian Gerald Gosling. Mr Gosling died at Dorset County Hospital on Monday, January 4, aged 78, after a long illness.

EAST Devon's sporting fraternity is this week mourning the death of sports writer and historian Gerald Gosling.

Mr Gosling died at Dorset County Hospital on Monday, January 4, aged 78, after a long illness.

Seaton-born Mr Gosling attended Seaton Primary School and Colyton Grammar School.

His writing took off in the 1960s when he acted as secretary for Seaton Football Club and contributed articles to local newspapers.

He has published numerous history books on the Devon area, including some with Axminster writer Les Berry.

Mr Berry, who worked with Mr Gosling for over 10 years on around 14 titles, said: "He was not only an able writer, but a good friend.

"He was very generous with his time and even his money.

"He was a good friend to me in the 10 years I knew him - he will be missed without doubt."

Mr Gosling was a keen supporter of the Midweek Herald and was in regular contact with our newsdesk until just a few weeks before his death.

He was affectionately known by our reporting team as "the archbishop of Uplyme", a phrase he coined himself.

Mr Gosling's son, Paul, said: "He was well-known in the area, with a strong interest in local sport and history, which he was passionate about until the end."

He added that his father had been working on a book about Seaton Football Club's history at the time of his death.

Mr Gosling is survived by his wife Violet, children Sarah, Nola, Paul and John, and grandchildren Isobel, Elena, and Leo.

His funeral will be held at Uplyme Parish Church on Friday, January 15, at 12noon.

Burial will be immediately after in the adjoining cemetery.

The family have requested no flowers.

Donations can be made to The Royal British Legion (Lyme Regis branch) c/o A J Wakely and Sons 7a Silver Street, Lyme Regis.