Daz was Newport’s record appearance holder and the man described simply as “Mr Newport”

Darren is Newport's record appearance holder, playing 585 games and scoring 73 goals in yellow and blue. But those numbers only tell part of the story. They can't explain what he meant to Newport, or to so many people across Island football.

He was, quite simply, Mr Newport.

Darren first pulled on the shirt in 2006 and made his final appearance in 2024. Darren was a

talented, fiercely competitive player who could fill several positions and never gave anything less than everything. He was dependable, committed, and proud to wear the shirt.

He helped Newport win the Russell Cotes Cup in 2010/11 and was part of seven Senior Gold Cup wins.

Even after he stepped back from playing for Newport, his loyalty never wavered. When Newport were short of players in 2023/24, Darren came back to help. It was typical of him. If Newport needed him, the answer was always yes.

His 585th and final appearance for Newport came in a 3–3 draw away against Ash United on 4 April 2024.

His talent was recognised beyond the club too. He represented the Isle of Wight at the Island Games in 2003, 2009 and 2015, and was a hugely respected figure across Island football throughout his career.

After leaving Newport he continued playing for Binstead & COB and was captaining the side when he suffered a serious medical emergency during their match against Northwood St Johns.

Everyone at Newport is deeply grateful to the Binstead players and everyone else who fought so hard to save Darren and care for him until the emergency services arrived. Their courage gave him every possible chance.

Newport Chairman John Davies said:
"We are all heartbroken. Darren was ‘Mr Newport’. He gave so much to this club over so many years, and his record of 585 appearances may never be beaten. But Darren was about far more than appearances and trophies. He understood what Newport meant, and he was always there when the club needed him. Our thoughts are with Darren’s family and friends.

"Darren had agreed to officially open WightFibre Park alongside our club president, Bob Foad, in October. We are desperately sad that Darren won't be with us for that occasion, but his place in this club's history is secure. He'll always be a massive part of Newport Football Club."

“When the time is right, and the shock and raw emotion of losing Darren have eased, we'll sit down with his family to talk about the best way to honour him. For now, we'll simply remember the player, the friend, and the man who meant so much to everyone at Newport Football Club."

Club Director Paul Rushton, who recently wrote the clubs ‘Where are they now?’ feature about Darren said “Newport supporters will never forget Darren, He competed for every ball, he gave everything, and he set an example to everyone around him. Darren was one of the greatest players ever to wear the Newport shirt. Not only that, he was my favourite player to wear it”.