The Club were deeply saddened to hear of the passing of former Gills inside-forward William "Bill" Burtenshaw, who passed away recently at the age of 84.

Bill was born and raised in Portslade, East Sussex and began his footballing career with the local amateur side, before moving on to Southwick FC where he was spotted by Luton Town.

After a season at Kenilworth Road, Bill was snapped up by Gillingham in October 1949, Manager Archie Clark splashing out a then record fee of £10,000 to secure the triple signing of Bill, his older brother Charlie Burtenshaw and Bill "Buster" Collins.

Although not a vintage campaign, Burtenshaw netted 12 times in 21 appearances, 1949-50 would prove to be a pivotal one in the fortunes of the Gills. Despite finishing 5^th in the Southern League, the club were re-elected to the Football League, taking their place in the newly expanded Division Three South, following a landslide victory in the ballot.

Bill was a regular for the Blues in their first two seasons back in the League, scoring a further nine goals in 45 League and Cup appearances. In 1953 he and brother Charlie linked up with Buster Collins again at Kent non-league outfit Snowdown Colliery Welfare, before the brothers called time on their careers after a stint at Canterbury City.

Everyone at Gillingham Football Club would like to pass on their condolences to Bill's wife Isobell, son Kevin and to all his family and friends for their sad loss.

For supporters and friends wishing to pay their respects, the funeral service will take place on Wednesday 24th March at the Downs Crematorium in Brighton at midday.