OXFORD United fans and opposition supporters across the country have paid tribute to avid U’s follower Jeff James and donated thousands towards his funeral.

The 48-year-old from Kidlington died unexpectedly earlier this week and fans, as well as family and friends, have since raised more than £12,000 to give him a ‘proper send off’.

Mr James - whose nickname was 'The General' - followed United up and down the country - as well taking the Yellows’ flag abroad with England - for decades.

His funeral, yet to be finalised, could be attended by more than 1,000 well-wishers with some opposing teams’ fans believed to be arranging coaches to Kidlington to pay their respects.

Mr James’ close friends and family, including his 18-year-old daughter Celeste paid tribute to him on the JustGiving page, which has exceeded its £8,000 target.

They said: “He was loved by so many. Not just in Oxfordshire but all over the country and across to foreign soils.

“He will leave a huge gap in the lives of so many and we have been touched at how many calls and texts we have received to show respect and offer heartfelt condolences.”

Supporters’ groups from Portsmouth, Plymouth and QPR have also contributed to the funeral fund.

Close friend Paul Woodburn, who knew him from the age of five and travelled up and down country with him following Oxford United, said: “Fans come and go but Jeff was there all the time through the highs and lows.

“Everybody seems to have been his best friend - I’m just amazed how many people knew him and liked him.

“Fans from Portsmouth, Plymouth and QPR are all giving to the fund, it’s just incredible - every away game we went to he would meet with a couple of home fans he just knew everyone.”

The 50-year-old added: “The first thing you saw when you walked into his living room was Malcolm Shotton lifting the Milk Cup - his life from the age of six was Oxford United.”

After news of his death spread across the Yellows community earlier this week fans flooded social media with tributes.

U’s fan, Liam Walker, said: “Absolutely gutted to have lost one of the best friends and top football lads around.

“The General will be missed by all of us who were lucky enough to know and love him.”

Former OxVox chairman Jem Faulkner said: “Desperately sad news. RIP Jeff James. An OUFC legend.”

Any remaining funds will support Mr James’ daughter.

To donate go to justgiving.com/crowdfunding/thegeneraljeffjames