Who Is Doug Loft’s Wife, Laura? Meet Former Port Vale Captain’s Family After Former Footballer’s Death at 39

Former Port Vale captain Doug Loft has died aged 39 after suffering a medical emergency over the weekend, leaving behind his wife, Laura, and their two children, Freya and Amelie. The former midfielder’s death prompted tributes from the English Football League club and Gillingham, where he also served as captain.

Loft’s family was mentioned in a statement released by Gillingham following his sudden death. The club expressed its condolences to Laura and the couple’s children, as well as to his friends and relatives.

Who Is Doug Loft’s Wife Laura?

Laura was identified as Loft’s wife in Gillingham’s statement announcing his death. The club did not share further details about her personal life, career or background.

In its tribute, Gillingham said: “Our thoughts and condolences are with Doug’s wife Laura, their children Freya and Amelie, along with his friends and family at this very difficult time.”

The statement confirmed that Loft died suddenly after a medical emergency over the weekend. No further details about the circumstances of the emergency were included in the report.

Doug Loft’s Children Freya and Amelie

Loft and Laura had two children, Freya and Amelie, according to Gillingham’s statement. The family has not publicly shared further details about the children in the report.

The club’s message placed Loft’s family at the center of its condolences, alongside his friends and former teammates. Neither the statement nor the report provided additional information about how the family is coping with his death.

Doug Loft’s Football Career

Loft began his career with Hastings United before joining Brighton & Hove Albion, where he made three appearances in the Championship. He later played for Gillingham and Colchester United, but became particularly associated with Port Vale, representing the club for five seasons after joining in 2009.

Port Vale described Loft as a hard-working and versatile midfielder who earned the respect of supporters through his commitment and determination. His contribution during the 2011-12 campaign earned him the club’s Player of the Season award.

He was subsequently appointed captain and wore the armband as Port Vale secured promotion from League Two during the 2012-13 season under manager Micky Adams.

In its tribute, Port Vale said Loft’s leadership, passion and dedication had made him a firm favorite with supporters. The club also remembered his role in the promotion-winning side and extended its condolences to his family, friends and former teammates.

After leaving Port Vale in 2014, Loft continued his career with Gillingham, Colchester United and Shrewsbury Town, among other clubs. He also played for Billericay Town, Margate and Tonbridge Angels, and had two loan spells at Dagenham and Redbridge.

Tributes Follow Doug Loft’s Death

Gillingham, where Loft also served as captain, said it was “absolutely devastated” by his death.

Former teammate Leon Legge also paid tribute in a post on X, reflecting on how young Loft was when he died. Legge wrote that life was short and that 39 was “way too young.”

Loft retired from professional football in 2023 after suffering a serious Achilles injury. Tonbridge Angels were the last club he played for.

Port Vale also requested permission from the English Football League for its players to wear black armbands and hold a minute’s silence before the club’s match against Chesterfield that weekend, saying it had done so with the blessing of Loft’s family.

As tributes continue from the clubs and people who knew him through football, Loft is being remembered for his contribution on the pitch, his leadership and the relationships he built during his career.