It is with deep sadness that we record the passing of our former player, Colin Woffinden.
Colin commenced his football career with Eastbourne United, where his performances attracted the attention of Brighton & Hove Albion. He transferred to the Goldstone Ground in 1970, subsequently making his first-team debut against Gillingham. Whilst his first-team opportunities were limited to four appearances, he achieved the distinction of scoring for the club.
He later moved into non-league football, representing Sutton United before transferring to Walton & Hersham. During his tenure with Walton & Hersham, he was a member of the side that secured a historic away victory against Brighton. A subsequent move to Leatherhead brought further cup success, culminating in a celebrated fixture against Leicester City, broadcast nationally on BBC’s Match of the Day.
Colin joined our club ahead of the 1977/78 campaign, making his league debut in a 2–0 victory over Woking. Later that season, against the same opponents, he scored in the Surrey Senior Cup final. His goal contributed to a landmark victory that secured the club an unprecedented third consecutive title in the competition.
In December 1979, Colin departed to rejoin Sutton United. He concluded his service with us having amassed 75 competitive appearances and seven goals, alongside a further three goals in friendly fixtures. Notably, he recorded a brace in a league fixture against Carshalton Athletic, though it ultimately ended in a narrow 4–3 defeat.
Following his second spell with Sutton, Colin went on to represent Burgess Hill and demonstrated his enduring longevity in the sport by playing for Saltdean well into his forties.
In his later years, Colin remained dedicated to the game, establishing the Brighton & Hove Albion youth development team and co-authoring the Guinness Book of Skilful Soccer.
Everybody at Tooting and Mitcham United FC offer their profound condolences to Colin’s family and friends at this difficult time.
Ian Bullock & Keith Kelly