IN LOVING MEMORY: Former Port Vale and Gillingham Captain Doug Loft Dies at 39 Following Sudden Medical Emergency
Gillingham FC announced the news
MAIDSTONE, ENGLAND — Former Port Vale and Gillingham captain Doug Loft has passed away at the age of 39 following a sudden medical emergency
Passing and Tributes Across Football
Gillingham FC announced the news on Monday, October 12, 2026, confirming that Loft died suddenly following a medical emergency. Clubs across the English Football League (EFL) and non-league system—including Port Vale, Brighton & Hove Albion, and Gillingham—expressed profound sadness and shared condolences with his family. Port Vale announced plans to request permission from the EFL for players to wear black armbands and observe a minute’s silence prior to their upcoming match against Chesterfield.
An 18-Year Career Across English Football
Born in Maidstone, Kent, Loft began his senior career at Hastings United before moving to Brighton & Hove Albion in January 2006, where he made 49 senior appearances. In 2009, he joined Port Vale, where he became a key figure and dressing-room leader, earning the club’s Player of the Year award for the 2011–12 season and captaining the side to promotion to League One in 2012–13. He later captained Gillingham and went on to represent Colchester United, Shrewsbury Town, Dagenham & Redbridge, Billericay Town, Margate, and Tonbridge Angels, amassing over 420 career appearances before retiring in 2023.
Family and Community Condolences
Loft is survived by his wife, Laura, and their two daughters, Freya and Amelie. Former teammates, managers, and supporters have offered condolences to his family, remembering Loft for his leadership, versatility, and dedication throughout his time in English football.
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