West Ham's co-chairman David Gold has died at the age of 86 following a short illness, the club confirmed today.
Gold, who grew up at 442 Green Street, directly opposite the Boleyn Ground, was a lifelong Hammer and it was in January 2010 when he fulfilled a dream by becoming co-chairman of West Ham.
West Ham are due to face Leeds away on Wednesday night, during which there will be tributes made to Gold, who died with his daughters, Jacqueline and Vanessa, and his fiancée Lesley, by his side on Wednesday morning.
Gold's fellow co-chairman David Sullivan said: 'It is with profound sorrow and a heavy heart that we mourn the passing of our colleague and friend.
'Of all our joint ventures, none gave us more pride and happiness than the day we took ownership of West Ham United, our club. David had a long-standing connection with the Hammers, having grown up opposite the Boleyn Ground in Green Street, and represented the club at junior level.
'He always wanted what was best for West Ham United, and his passing is a great loss for all of us.'
Manager David Moyes added: 'I am extremely sad to hear this news and, on behalf of all of the players and my staff at the training ground, I would like to extend our deepest sympathies to David Gold’s family at this very difficult time.
'Mr Gold was a regular visitor to Rush Green and always a source of great support and encouragement to myself and the players. It was clear that he had a genuine and sincere love for the Club and was a true supporter at heart.
'He took a great interest in the people working behind-the-scenes and was always keen to help in any way he could. He will be greatly missed.'
More to follow...