Tributes paid to 'gentleman' Tempest United chairman

Alan Westhead was chairman of Tempest United and had an association of more than 60 years with the Bolton club.

He was a player, manager, committee member, secretary and chairman while his son Gary is still heavily involved in the club.

Mr Westhead, who was in his 80s, was awarded the Wilf Carr Club Loyalty Trophy at the league’s 2023/24 season presentation night in June at Blackpool FC.

He died on Sunday surrounded by his family at Bolton Hospice. He had previously battled cancer.

First team manager Ross McNair said: “Alan was a great bloke. I’ve been around the block and met some great personalities but none like Alan.

“He was a character and a wind-up merchant too!

“When I had my half time screams in the dressing room, he’d be outside with his ear against the door trying to listen. Then when I’d done he’d come in and say what I had just said!

“He would do anything for anyone and what I loved about him the most is that he never had a bad word to say about another club. Not one.

“He knew how hard it was to run clubs at this level and he respected that. That was the sort of man he was.”

Tempest United are currently unbeaten at the top of the Premier Division and McNair added they are now doubly determined to lift the title in their former chairman’s honour.

“That’s my team talks done now, I don’t need to do any,” he said. “It would have meant the world to him to win the league so he’ll be in our minds now every single game.”

John Brown, the West Lancashire League’s Honorary General Secretary, said: “Alan was a true gentleman and he was extremely well thought of by everyone who knew him and the West Lancashire League committee.

“He was a quiet person but was also a strong character within the club and a top class secretary when he held that role.

“We would like to offer our condolences to all his family and friends at this sad time.”

Rob Pennington, chairman of neighbouring side CMB, said: “On behalf of CMB we would like to offer our deepest condolences.

“We wish Gary and the whole Tempest family the courage to face the days ahead and loving memories to hold in your heart forever. He was a true legend.”

Posting on social media, CMB manager Matt Taylor added: “Very sad news. A wonderful man and a local football legend. He will be missed greatly, but his legacy will always be there.”

Burscough Richmond chairman Chris Clandon added: “So sorry to hear this, Alan was a lovely fella, always made you feel welcome.

“Condolences to his family and everyone at Tempest United FC.”

And Croston manager Stuart Birch said: “Alan was such a lovely fella, on all my visits to Tempest he had a friendly welcome and we always had a great chat.”