Tributes paid to ‘well-loved and kind’ football club hero

TRIBUTES have been paid to a football club trustee who was “well loved and respected by everyone”.

- BY YASMIN AL-NAJAR

Phil Eddleston from Great Harwood passed away on Tuesday, September 2, after having a heart attack outside the Aspinall Arms in Clitheroe.

Members of the public tried to resuscitate him until police and paramedics arrived, but he was pronounced dead at the scene.

His son Alistair played for Great Harwood Rovers FC in his youth and, even after he left, Phil remained dedicated to the club for around 40 years and was a trustee as well as a football coach.

His daughter Nicole said: “Dad was a community man and he was well loved and respected by everyone.

“He never said no to anyone and he was always there if you needed him. He was kind and had such a good heart”

Phil earned a lifetime achievement award with the club last year for his unwavering support and dedication.

Phil and his brother Peter ran Eddleston Bakery on Blackburn Road, Great Harwood, after their father Alexander passed away.

Even while Phil was busy running the bakery for around 30 years, he made sure the club remained supported by sponsoring them.

The bakery opened in 1905 and is well known for its pies, especially buttered pies.