Hendon Football Club was shocked to learn of the death of a former player last week. Danny Worley, who was the co-pilot of the ill-fated Lear Jet used by Formula 1 ace David Coulthard which crashed at Lyon, played for Hendon from 1985 to '87. He left the club in March 1987 having enlisted in the RAF. Worley first appeared for Hendon in 1984 as a member of the youth team under the management of John Newing. Among his teammates were former Edgware player-manager Steve Newing and ex-England non-league, Barnet, Barnsley and Southend player Phil Gridelet. Worley made 61 first team appearances, scoring 9 goals. In 1985-86, he actually finished as Hendon's second-highest goalscorer with 5 goals.

A flying winger, Worley's pace was his greatest asset and manager Ted Hardy utilised this by making him a regular substitute, when he terrorised tiring defenders. Unlike most players who are consigned to a regular place on the bench, Worley was uncomplaining about his role, being a team player and realising his value to the team could be greater as a replacement. Worley's attitude was always exemplary; friendly, modest, self-effacing and cheerful. He took some fearful kickings but got up and continued playing, never looking for revenge.

Danny was presented with a tankard by the Hendon FC Supporters Association after what was assumed to be his final appearance in March 1987, but had a couple more games before the season ended. The presentation was a indication of the esteem in which he was held - after all, he was only 20 years old and had started less than 30 games for the club.

His family come from Hendon and he, along with his three brothers, was educated locally. Aged just 33, he was married in the mid-1990s and had a baby daughter. His widow is expecting their second child in June.