He was at Coneference club Grays when he was diagnosed with a severe form of skin cancer in February before he passed away in the early hours of July 3.

Cooksey, 28, played for Crawley during the 2002/2003 season, making 34 appearances and scoring three goals.

Earlier this season members of Crawley Town Supporter Club raised £750 for him after hearing he had the disease.

The former Oldham and Rochdale player had already beaten cancer once in 2006 before hearing it had come back earlier this year.

Ernie's partner Louise is due to give birth to their first child in just five weeks time.

Crawley Town Football Club have sent their tributes to the midfielder's family.

Crawley chairman Vic Marley said: "It was a very sad moment when we heard the news.

"We will always remember him for being an outstanding player and one our manager tried to sign only last summer before he joined Grays Athletic.

"It is not so long ago he was playing and still being the best player."

He also played under current Town boss Steve Evans at Boston in 2007.

Evans added his condolences. He said: "We are all devastated by the news.

"As a player he gave you everything he had. He was fiery, had a great tenacity and always got a goal."

"He will be missed by many that is for sure. My thoughts now go towards his Dad and his partner Louise."

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