Mirror Football
October 12, 2026
Former Port Vale captain Doug Loft has died aged 39 following a medical emergency. The midfielder began his career at Hastings United before joining Brighton and making three appearances in the Championship.
He later had spells at Gillingham and Colchester United but is best known for the five years he represented Port Vale. Following his tragic death, the EFL club were quick to issue a tribute.
Their statement read: "We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of former Vale captain, Doug Loft, at the age of 39.
"Loft joined the Valiants in the summer of 2009 from Brighton & Hove Albion and went on to become hugely popular during his five seasons with the club.
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"A hard-working and versatile midfielder, he quickly became a key member of the squad, earning the respect of supporters through his commitment and determination in a Vale shirt.
"His contribution during the 2011/12 campaign saw him named our Player of the Season, and he was later named club captain ahead of the following season.
"He would go on to play an important role for the club, wearing the armband as we secured promotion from League Two in 2012/13 season under Micky Adams.
"Loft's leadership, passion and dedication to the badge helped establish him as a firm favourite, and his contribution to that promotion-winning side will forever remain part of the club's history.
"After leaving Vale Park in 2014, Doug continued his playing career with Gillingham, Colchester United and Shrewsbury Town respectively, among other clubs.
"He will be remembered fondly by everyone at the club, not only for his achievements on the pitch but for the commitment and leadership he showed throughout his time in Burslem.
"The thoughts and heartfelt condolences of everyone at Port Vale are with Doug's family, friends, former team-mates and all those who knew him, at this incredibly sad time.
"With the blessing of Doug’s family, we have requested permission from the EFL for our players to wear black armbands and to hold a minute’s silence ahead of kick off ahead of this weekend's game against Chesterfield.
Gillingham, who Loft also captained, sent their condolences to his family in a statement on social media. It read: "The Football Club is absolutely devastated to announce the death of former Gills Captain, Doug Loft.
“Doug died suddenly following a medical emergency over the weekend. “Our thoughts and condolences are with Doug's wife Laura, their children Freya and Amelie, along with his friends and family at this very difficult time.”
Leon Legge, a former teammate of Loft at the Gills, also paid tribute as he wrote on X: "Life is so short a former teammate passed away and literally only couple of years between us. 39 is way too young."
The 39-year-old retired in 2023 after a serious Achilles injury with Tonbridge Angels the last club he played for. Loft also spent time at Billericay Town, Margate and two loan spells with Dagenham and Redbridge at the opposite ends of his career.
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