Club mourns death of popular Paul, 48

An amateur football club was today mourning the death of its popular chairman, Paul Lomax.

Mr Lomax (48) was the driving force behind Avro FC, which plays at the Lancaster Club, off Broadway, Failsworth.

His funeral was taking place at St Mary’s RC Church, Failsworth, followed by a committal at Blackley Crematorium. He died at Dr Kershaw’s Hospice, Royton, on December 10.

Mr Lomax leaves a widow Gina and son Ben. Under his chairmanship, the club gained the FA Charter Standard. Secretary David Moxon said Mr Lomax had helped make the club the success it is today.

He added: “In the last three years it has gone from a club with a couple of senior and junior sides, to one with teams from under-7s to under-16s level.

“Paul was not a player but his son Ben was and I think that’s how he got involved. Paul was the man who got the club where it is today.”

A tribute on the club’s website added: “Paul was the driving force behind the new-look Avro FC.

“Paul’s wit and charisma will be sadly missed, our thoughts go to his family in this time of bereavement.”

The club was established in 1936 and began junior teams in 1989, with more than 160 registered players.

It also organises social activities, football tournaments, seaside summer camps and presentation evenings, as well as developing the skills to benefit players from junior to senior football.