A BRITISH footballer has been hailed as a “massive asset on the pitch” in emotional tributes after he died on a trip to Amsterdam.
Charlie Batcup, 30, from Swansea, played for Pontlliw FC and was described by friends as the “heartbeat” of the club.
The Welsh footballer was a lifelong player at the club, who following his death said he had enriched the lives of all their players and club members.
Charlie died while he was travelling in the Netherlands, and the Foreign Office said they were supporting the family of a British man.
Pontlliw FC paid tribute to their player on Sunday and said: “Pontlliw FC is heartbroken and devastated to announce that our player, club man and dear friend Charlie Batcup has tragically passed away.
“Charlie was a huge part of the club in a way that words cannot describe and his passing has left a huge void in our club which we will never be able to replace”.
They added that he was a “massive asset on the pitch” and in every team he played in.
“Off the field he was the heartbeat of our club community and personified our ethos of camaraderie, inclusivity, and cohesion,” they said.
“We are struggling to imagine an away day, social event, or even a Saturday afternoon without Charlie’s presence and he will always be in our thoughts now and forever.
Also taking to social media to share a heartfelt tribute to the late football player, was Charlie’s brother, Josh Batcup.
On Facebook, Josh shared a series of photos from when the pair were young boys, to them as adults watching a game of football.
He wrote: “I can’t quite believe I’m writing this but my Brother Charlie has tragically passed away.
“You were the heartbeat of Pontlliw Football club and village. There will be an emptiness in many people’s lives now you’re gone”.
He went on to describe his brother as “simply an amazing person”, “so well loved by everyone”, and “kind”.
“You are my only brother and the thought of you not being around anymore is unbearable,” Josh added.
“Life as I’ve always known it will never again be the same without you in it and not a day will go by when I won’t think about you.
“I love you so so much Charl, I just wish I could tell you this in person one more time.
“Rest in peace little bro, I will miss you immensely for the rest of my life”.
An Foreign Office spokesman said: “We are supporting the family of a British man who has died in the Netherlands and are in contact with the local authorities.”
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Taryn Kaur Pedler
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