A man found dead in the River Thames at Buscot has been named as a local footballer.
Following a major water search, police recovered William Coker’s body on Sunday afternoon (13 July). He had been reported missing in the water in the evening of Saturday (12 July).
Will had been part of Calne Town FC’s reserve team for the past five years. The club issued a heartfelt statement this morning (Monday):
‘We are very sad to announce that Will Coker has passed away over the weekend. Will was a part of our Reserve team for the last five years.
‘Will loved his football, always had a smile on his face, and was liked by everyone. Our thoughts are with Will’s friends and family at this sad time. Will has been taken far too early. RIP Will.’
Highworth Town FC manager Paul Braithwaite also expressed deep sorrow over the loss. He received the devastating news from one of Will’s close friends early on Sunday afternoon.
Paul Braithwaite said: ‘I’ve known Will now for the past three seasons, he always attended our pre‑season sessions since I’ve been at the club and pushed himself so hard at every session to try and break into the first team.
‘He played a big part in the reserve team under manager Liam Coombley. And again this season Will was back in with us applying himself in his usual hard working manner with a huge smile on his face.
‘It was only last Saturday he was playing with us all against his ex‑reserve team mates in the picture above. It’s so sad that only seven days later we receive this tragic news.
‘Will was a quiet but super polite and respectful lad who loved football so much.
‘He won’t be forgotten by myself and as a club we will be holding a two minute silence on Tuesday in our home friendly against Devizes Town.
‘Myself and all associated with Highworth Town FC would like to send all our love and condolences to Will’s family and friends.’
A GoFundMe has also been set up – with Otis Lewis describing William as “truly one of a kind”.
He added: “May his jubilant and joyous temperament stand alone in our hearts.
“May his passage to Gods perfect kingdom be peaceful and protected. May he rest in power.
“As much as it is said with regret, the people who love him should feel privileged to have met him and had him bring positivity to our lives, more so than we feel sorrow to say goodbye.
“Rest in power William Coker. Heaven has gained a King.”
