Alan Lovegrove – ‘The cornerstone of our community’

Newbury Town and West Berkshire football as a whole is mourning the passing of Alan Lovegrove on Sunday morning.

A driving force behind the club’s return to the town it represents over the last few years, Mr Lovegrove also held positions at other West Berks sides including Thatcham Town.

Newbury posted a tribute to Mr Lovegrove on social media:

It is with a very heavy heart that we share the passing of our beloved club secretary and kit man, Alan Lovegrove, who left us in the early hours of this morning.

Alan had been taken into hospital a few months ago for what we all hoped would be a routine procedure, but sadly he never fully recovered. Alan was more than just a part of Newbury Town Football Club; he was a cornerstone of our community and a huge part of our journey, especially during the club’s rebuild over the summer.

We are immensely grateful for everything he did and for the countless hours he dedicated to the club. Our thoughts and deepest condolences go out to Alan’s partner, Christine, and his children, Matty, Michael, and Emma.

We want them to know that they have our full support during this incredibly difficult time.

Thank you, Alan, for everything you gave to Newbury Town Football Club. You will be deeply missed.

In 2024, Mr Lovegrove was nominated for a Berkshire Football Award in 2024 with the nomination we received saying: “I’m nominating Alan Lovegrove as Volunteer of the season as he is a vital member of Newbury Football Club. Alan is the secretary of the club, who communicates with other teams and referees pre-match day as well as registering players and sorting out fines. Alan and his partner Christine also take the kit home every week to wash making sure it’s ready for our next game. On match day he’s always first to arrive making sure the kit is put out ready for the team. Alan’s commitment to the club is appreciated by all the lads and deserves this nomination.”