Former gangster Dave Courtney killed himself due to pain from cancer and arthritis, his family have said in an emotional statement.

The reformed criminal, 64, was found dead at his home in Plumstead, southeast London, yesterday, just a day after appearing happy while watching his beloved Charlton Athletic FC.

Courtney was involved in the criminal underworld and was associates of the Kray brothers, Roy Shaw and Lenny McLean, among others, reports the Mirror.

The statement released today by his loved ones referenced Courtney's autobiography 'Stop The Ride, I Want To Get Off'.

They said: "On October 22, 2023, Dave made the decision to 'stop the ride.' He had lived an incredible, colourful rock 'n' roll life in which he touched the hearts of so many.

"The physical pain of living the lifestyle he chose, especially due to the pain of both cancer and arthritis in his later years, became too much. So, rather than be a burden to his family and friends, he chose to 'stop the ride' and take his own way out. In his own immortal words 'stop the ride, I want to get off'."

The Metropolitan Police said they were called to an address on Chestnut Rise in Plumstead on Sunday after reports of a man found dead around 11.25am. His death is being treated as unexplained and under investigation.

On Saturday, one day before he was found dead, Courtney was pictured watching Charlton Athletic. The pictures show him smiling as he enjoyed hospitality at The Valley stadium, in what he described as a "cool, cool day".

He wrote on Facebook alongside the pictures: "At Charlton today. Full works today three course meal and our man James company is sponsor for the game. Billingham communications .... an wat a cool, cool day it's all turning out to be."

People have since shared their respects in comments on the post following the news of his death.

Courtney gained his hardman reputation as a debt collector, using a knuckle-duster as a weapon. He claimed to have been found not guilty at 19 different trials - however his convictions included possessing live ammunition in January 2009.

Similar to associate Lenny McLean, Courtney used his 'hard man' image to get into acting. Courtney appeared in a number of low-budget gangster films - including Hell To Pay, which he produced, directed and starred in. Other movies he appeared in include Six Bend Trapp, Clubbing to Death and The Dead Sleep Easy.

Writer and author Rocky Troiani said on social media: "This is a post I never thought I would be writing. The loss of Dave Courtney is beyond words so heartbreaking to write. Dave had been a close friend for many years as well as a great support for my charity work as photo shows here and even for a little sick girl just couple years ago dressed a father Christmas. Dave had a heart of pure gold and would help anyone that genuinely needed it. I will miss my Christmas eve call this year. Such a sad loss and one that has broken many hearts too. God bless you sir you will be so sadly missed."

A friend wrote on Facebook: "My heart goes out to his family, especially his poor Mum who is in her 90s and Davey boy was her world."

If you are feeling suicidal, you can call the Samaritans on 116 123, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

The Samaritans also offer an email service if you would prefer to write down how you are feeling: jo@samaritans.org

Alternatively, you can visit the website: www.samaritans.org

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