Watford fans will stage a minute's applause at the next game in memory of an "true gent" who died supporting the club.

Lifelong fan Ray Batchelor, 81, was among the 2,750-strong away fans at Saturday's game against West Bromwich Albion, but he collapsed at the Hawthorns after complaining of feeling unwell.

READ MORE: Watford fan Ray Batchelor dies following game at West Bromwich Albion

Mr Batchelor received CPR, but could not be revived.

Fan group the 1881 Movement is organising a minute’s applause with the club during the 81st minute at this Saturday's game against Everton, during which an image of Mr Batchelor will be shown on the big screen.

A fundraising campaign has this week been set up by one fan, with £350 raised so far.

Josh Hughes wrote: "In an incredibly sad turn of events, Ray Batchelor sadly passed away on December 3 after watching his beloved Hornets at The Hawthorns, a team he supported home and away for more than 70 years.

"This fund is intended to commemorate Ray, as he was a fan who gave so much to the club seeing them rise and fall on so many occasions.

"We strongly hope all Watford fans donate to give back and commemorate Ray, who gave so much to our club that it's only right we give back.

"The money raised will be used by Ray's family to use how they see fit, whether that be towards unexpected funeral expenses, a memorial at Vicarage Road (subject to club consent), or a memorial on the buses he loved to 'accidentally' miss on his Friday night club socials.

"Help spread the word for this Watford legend, never to be forgotten.

"Once a Golden Boy, always a Golden Boy and now a Golden Boy forever. Rest in peace Ray 'Raymondo' Batchelor."

Hundreds of messages of condolence have appeared on social media since people heard the news.

Terry Tompkins said: "Yesterday a Facebook friend and fellow Hornet passed away while watching Watford FC play in the Midlands.

"I am shocked and saddened that Ray Batchelor, who was a very proud ex-soldier and later worked with disabled and less fortunate young people will no longer be standing among us.

Watford Observer:

“I will miss his daily Facebook posts, bringing a balanced view of world affairs and what happened and who he met while out and about on his daily walk. I will miss you Ray.

"My thoughts are also with Ray’s family at this difficult time. Sleep peacefully Ray, I will raise a glass in your memory tonight mate, god bless you mate."

Watford Observer:

Writing on Facebook on Saturday, Patrick Stride wrote: "I left Watford Junction this morning with ‘Raymondo’ Ray Batchelor, a true Watford legend.

"My last train trip with this bloke - we had many together. He loved a good lager journey to north, south, east or west to follow our Horns Watford FC.

"You will be greatly missed Ray, I can honestly say I am gutted."

Charlie Babington added: "Shocked to hear of Ray Batchelor passing. A true gent who would do anything for anybody.

"Remember him buying pints for me before I turned 18 nearly 15 years ago. A true Watford man with a heart of gold. RIP mate."

Watford FC said they were deeply saddened to learn of the death of the life-long fan.

“I was deeply moved to hear the news of Ray’s passing as I journeyed home from the match,” said Hornets’ CEO Scott Duxbury.

“On behalf of everyone at the club, our thoughts and sincere condolences are with Ray’s family and friends at this time.”

The Hornets will take on the Toffees at Vicarage Road from 12.30pm.