Whitley Bay pay emotional tribute as club stalwart passes away

By Mark Carruthers

Whitley Bay have paid tribute to club stalwart Derek Breakwell after he passed away on Saturday night.

The long-serving club secretary has become a familiar figure at Hillheads and at non-league grounds around the North East.  He became well-known for his diligent work behind the scenes at Hillheads and in roles within the Ebac Northern League management committee and the Northumberland FA.

Breakwell passed away following a long battle with illness over the weekend and the four-time FA Vase winners paid an emotional tribute in a statement released on Sunday afternoon.

It read: “A lifelong supporter of Whitley Bay Football Club, Derek was a very popular and hugely respected figure within the Club and was carrying out secretarial duties even in the last few days.

“It was thanks to his efficient organisation that the Club won numerous administration awards over the years. Derek also served on the Northern League management committee for many years as well as holding roles within the Northumberland FA. 

“He will be greatly missed by everyone at Whitley Bay Football Club and and wider football community. We extend our love and sincere heartfelt sympathy to his wife Jennifer who has served as Club Treasurer for many years and to all his family.

“We would ask everyone to respect the privacy of the family at this very sad time.”

Northern League president and former FIFA referee George Courtney described Breakwell’s passing as ‘a sad loss’ and league chairman Glenn Youngman also paid a personal tribute to his colleague.

He said: “Derek was the epitome of what being a non-league volunteer and official is.  We will miss his knowledge and experience.  All of our thoughts are with his family and friends.”

The Northern League have also revealed they will be asking all member clubs to hold a minute’s silence at their next fixture to honour Breakwell.