Tony Bedeau dead at 45: Torquay United legend who came through Chelsea’s books dies as club left ‘shocked’

FORMER football star Tony Bedeau has died at the age of just 45.

Tributes have poured in for the ex-Chelsea youth player and Torquay United legend from team-mates and fans.

Bedeau passed away from a medical issue at his home in west London, according to reports.

As a mark of respect, Torquay will hold a minute’s applause before kick-off against Hornchurch at Plainmoor on Saturday.

A club statement read: "Tony’s passing has shocked all of us, and our thoughts and condolences are with his family and friends at this incredibly difficult time."

Co-chairman Michael Westcott said: "Tony was one of the most exciting players to have worn the yellow shirt – and one of my personal favourites.

"His pace and energy brought so much to the team, and he was much loved by our fans."

"We are deeply saddened by his passing. He will forever be a part of Torquay United’s legacy, and we offer our sincerest condolences to his family and all those who knew him."

Bedeau started his career with Torquay - making his debut at 16 years old - having previously been on the books at Chelsea.

He was born in Hammersmith and represented Grenada - through his father's birthplace - four times at international level.

The ex-striker scored 65 goals in 374 appearances during two spells with Torquay.

That total places him eighth on United’s all-time appearance list.

Bedeau joined the Gulls as an apprentice in 1995 and helped them finish third in what is now League Two in 2004.

He left the club in 2006 to join Walsall but returned to Plainmoor a year later before ending his career at non-league Kingstonian.

Renowned for his pace and flair, Bedeau was revered as one of the best strikers to play for Torquay.

‘Beds’, as he was known at Plainmoor, played in the 1998 Play-Off Final at Wembley and was close to big-money moves to Sunderland and Sheffield Wednesday.

Tributes have flooded in from fans and retired players.

Former semi-pro footballer James Constable - who now works as a player liaison at Oxford United - wrote on X: "Heartbreaking to hear of the passing of ex team-mate and friend Tony Bedeau.

"He will be missed by everyone who knew him, honestly one of the nicest guys you could meet. RIP Beds."

One supporter added: "One of the first footballers I remember watching live. Cult hero for Torquay in the late 90s/00s."

While a Walsall fan said: "Tony Bedeau helped give me one of the greatest seasons of my life. It is a sad day."

Walsall stated: "Our thoughts are with Tony’s friends, family and everyone at Torquay."