Latics chief quits on health grounds

ALAN HARDY: “I have great affection for the club”

ALAN Hardy is stepping down as Athletic’s chief executive on health grounds — and he hopes it will coincide with another Wembley appearance for the club.

The 61 year old, from Saddleworth, has been battling prostate cancer for some time and has decided to take retirement after 31 years at Boundary Park.

Though he has stopped work with immediate effect, Mr Hardy officially reaches the end of his tenure at the end of March, 2012 — by which time, the club may have claimed the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy.

“That would be a good way to top it off,” said Mr Hardy — who has taken phone calls from well-wishers including ex-manager Joe Royle and former goalkeeper Andy Rhodes since making his announcement yesterday.

“We have a wonderful chance of not only reaching Wembley, but winning there as well. Add that to the FA Cup tie at Liverpool and it is clear that manager Paul Dickov has to be commended on doing a terrific job in difficult circumstances.

“I have great affection for the club and wish everyone all the best for the remainder of the season. I also want to mention all the staff at Boundary Park, who have given me great support over many years, the sponsors and supporters who I have met over the past 30 years.

“There have been lots of great games in my time here. One that sticks out, in addition to the League Cup final against Nottingham Forest at Wembley, was when we beat the champions Arsenal 3-1 at Boundary Park in 1989. It was memorable in more ways than one — not least because at the end, I ended up in the bath with the players, fully clothed. It meant I had to deal with the sponsors while soaked through.”

Mr Hardy, who is married to Viv and has children Nicholas and Samantha and grandson Jack, has been chief executive at Boundary Park since 1997. Recently, his health problems have taken their toll and a decision was made to step away in order to spend more time with his family.

“It is two years since I was diagnosed and underwent major surgery,” he said. “Earlier this year I had a course of radiotherapy and hormone treatment but managed to continue working, albeit sometimes from home. But for the last few weeks I have had to spend some time away from the club for medical reasons and that has forced me to re-assess the situation. I feel that I now need to put my health and my family first.”

Latics chairman Simon Corney paid tribute to Mr Hardy’s lengthy and committed service to the club.

“It is a sad day for the club and for myself personally,” he said. “When I came into football, Alan mentored and tutored me and taught me a lot about football administration. And everybody knows the invaluable work he has done for the club. Alan has made the right decision because his health has to come first.

“However, I am sure we will still see plenty of Alan around the club and at games: he will always be welcome.”