In the early hours of Monday, 20th February, lifelong Darlington FC supporter Alan lost his battle with bowel cancer at the age of 53. He was diagnosed with the disease shortly after his 50th birthday and had been having treatment ever since, but was told in August there was no longer anything that could be done to save him.

Alan, a bachelor, worked at the Post Office in the town for 33 years and was well known amongst Darlington fans. He was a regular in the Cricket Club at Feethams after matches and was still going to 'home' matches' at Bishop Auckland's Heritage Park with his friends. Unfortunately he was too ill to attend the club's return to Blackwell Meadows. His funeral will take place this Wednesday, 10.45, at Darlington Crematorium. He was a much loved and well liked person by all his friends and family and will be sorely missed. Our condolences go to them.