The club is extremely shocked and saddened to learn of the passing of Dougie Kelshaw.

Husband of Danielle and father of Freya and Niamh, both very talented players who came through the Manchester Mystics programme, Dougie was a long-time supporter of our work.

He volunteered his time in many ways, from table official to minibus driver, and was awarded the Brian Dobson Award in 2015, together with Danielle, for his services to the club.

Arguably his biggest impact was as a passionate and enthusiastic supporter of many of the girls and boys who came through the doors of the Manchester Basketball Centre.

He was never short of an encouraging word or some well-timed advice.

“From a personal point of view, Dougie was one of the first people I got to know when my own boys joined the club back in 2012,” said club chief executive Phil Gordos.

“He was a larger-than-life character who went out of his way to help, in whatever way he could, not just supporting his own daughters but many other youngsters as well.

“He had a positive impact on a lot of people and will be greatly missed. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Danielle, Freya, Niamh and all those who were close to him.”