West Ham joint-chairman David Gold dies aged 86 following a 'short illness', club announces

West Ham joint-chairman David Gold has died aged 86 following a “short illness”, the Premier League club has announced.

David Gold, 86, died peacefully with his daughters, Jacqueline and Vanessa, and his fiancée Lesley, by his side, the club added.

Born in Stepney in 1936 and Mr Gold grew up directly opposite the club's former home at the Boleyn Ground.

He represented the club’s boys’ team aged between 13 and 16 and later appeared in the youth team.

West Ham United Joint-Chairman David Sullivan said: “On behalf of everyone at the football club, it is with profound sorrow and a heavy heart that we mourn the passing of our colleague and friend, David Gold.

“Of all our joint ventures, none gave us more pride and happiness than the day we took ownership of West Ham United, our Club, in January 2010. 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.”

The thoughts and sincere condolences of everyone at West Ham United are with David Gold’s two daughters Jacqueline and Vanessa, his fiancée Lesley and all of his family and friends at this extremely sad time.

A full tribute to our beloved Joint-Chairman will take place in due course.

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