Bolton chairman Phil Gartside dies aged 63

Bolton Wanderers have announced that their long-standing chairman Phil Gartside has died at the age of 63 after a battle with cancer.

Gartside joined the club’s board in 1988 and served as chairman from 1999 until stepping away from his duties in November due to illness.

Vice-chairman Brett Warburton said: “Phil has been a personal friend for over 30 years and this is a very sad day for everybody associated with Bolton Wanderers. On behalf of [owner] Eddie Davies, the board and everyone associated with the club we send our deepest condolences to all Phil’s family and ask that their privacy is respected during what is a difficult time for all involved.”

Bolton said in their statement that Gartside’s funeral will be a private service, in line with his family’s wishes.

A number of Wanderers players past and present took to social media after the announcement to pay their respects. Midfielder Josh Vela tweeted: “Rip Phil gartside thoughts and prayers go out to his family bwfc”. Team-mate Neil Danns posted a similar message – “Rip Phil gartside prayers go out to his family” – as did Craig Davies. “Sad to hear about Phil Gartside was always a top bloke with me,” the forward said. “My thoughts are with his family”.