OUR KING LOUIS WAS EPITOME OF BLUES

WARE FC have led the tributes to club captain Louis Rose, who passed away on Thursday at the age of 35 following a long battle with cancer.

- By Jon Couch

Defender Rose enjoyed a 13-year association with the Blues, over two spells, making over 200 appearances for the club, scoring 27 goals.

Along with teammate brother Leigh, he epitomised everything manager Paul Halsey wanted from his players, showing dedication on the pitch and community spirit off it.

Rose was first diagnosed with throat cancer in November 2023 but made an emotional return to action six months later, coming on as a substitute in a 2-0 win over Kidlington.

“Proud moment, stepping back on the pitch after six months of hell,” he said on social media.

“During gruelling sessions of chemotherapy and radiotherapy I wasn’t sure if I'd ever play again but once treatment was over I was determined to get back out there.”