Very sad to report the passing away of life vice-president Des Heesom late on Sunday evening. Des certainly made his mark on everyone connected with the club during his time as the Albion kit-man. No-one could enter the sanctum of his corridor cupboard, I remember virtually pleading with him, during my time as Secretary, for access to get some kit.

As well as looking after and cleaning the kit, done mainly by his wife Sandra of course! Des was always handy to have around and could often be seen making or repairing stadium and ground objects and paraphernalia. He was particular good working with wood and of proof I have a garden pond fence.

Des was born the youngest of four children, to Albert & Doris (nee Dawson) in Crows Lane, Comberbach and attended the local Primary School for 4 years before moving to Great Budworth in 1947. Sandra was his second wife, they marrying in May 1992.

Des loved going to away games, as indeed did the various club social clubs he frequented. He even managed to watch some of the action, unless of course Sprucie had other ideas! The picture shows the pair of them on familiar turf, with for some reason Des somewhat acting all shy.

Of late he suffered from poor eyesight and mobility issues but still took a vast interest in the club. Whilst serving Albion the family lived in a bungalow on Warrington Road, Marston but with the aforementioned health issues, a few years ago they moved to Wharton and Dessie then could also be seen at the Barton Stadium.

As a mark of respect there will be a minute’s silence prior to Saturday’s match v North Ferriby.

On behalf of everyone associated with Witton Albion we offer our sympathy to all his family at this sad time and we will of course advise of funeral arrangements etc in due course.

Personal Post Script – “How do Mr Chad”, I’ll never hear that first hand again but by heck for me the dressing room corridor will still echo to that greeting I got regularly from Des. R.I.P my dear friend.