Reading-born non-league legend, Dave Tarpey, has retired at the age of 35 after suffering a ruptured ACL.

A much-loved forward who played for sides across the divisions, predominantly in Berkshire, Tarpey is best known for scoring 95 goals in 141 appearances for Maidenhead United.

This included a record-breaking season of 46 goals in 41 matches as the Magpies won promotion as National League South champions.

Turning professional with Barnet at 27, the striker played twice for the Bees but returned to the non-league pyramid after their relegation in 2018 and managed just two EFL appearances.

Spending last season with Marlow, who won promotion out of Isthmian League South Central Division, he has called Hungerford, Bracknell and Henley as home across the region.

Releasing a statement on his social media to confirm the news, Tarpey said: "I am gutted to be writing this but after scan results have shown I have ruptured my ACL with other ligament damage, I have decided the time is right to hang up the boots.

"From starting to play football at five years old to ending at 35, I have experienced everything in football. Three promotions, two ACL injuries and one fantastic FA Cup run with some goalscoring records broken in there as well.

"At the age of 27 my childhood dream became a reality when I became a professional footballer for Barnet and that memory will live with me forever. I have played for some amazing clubs with great management teams and fans and I thank everyone who has supported me over the years..."