Bristol Rovers

We were all saddened to learn of the recent, tragic, death of Paul Withey who passed away suddenly on 2nd April.

Paul’s family asked if we could carry a tribute to him in our final programme of the season, as we play our final league game of the season and we were happy to agree.

Paul was 42 and his family will also instigate a minute’s applause in his memory in the 42nd minute of the game and invite all of you to join in this Bristol Rovers celebration of his life. There will be no PA announcement, and the applause will begin when the scoreboards show 42 minutes.

We extend our condolences to Paul’s family and wide circle of friends and publish this tribute written by his brother, Brendan.

‘Paul Withey tragically passed away on Saturday 2nd April 2016 aged 42 during the Tour De Bristol Bike ride.

‘Paul was a devoted Gashead and he could always be found on the East Terrace with his two children Mollie and Luke, Dad John and brother Brendan where they spent many happy years cheering on the boys in blue.

‘Paul also regularly travelled to away matches with his Dad and his love for the club was unwavering and he always remained supportive even in the toughest of times.  His brother Brendan said; “No greater tribute could be paid to Paul than his beloved Bristol Rovers going on to clinch promotion this season, that would have meant the world to him.”

‘Other than his family and his beloved Bristol Rovers his other love was developing the footballing skills of young boys through all of his work with AEK Boco FC. Paul was an extremely successful youth coach and his team were regular winners of Hanham Minor League and Avon Youth League accolades over the years.

‘Paul’s funeral was held on Friday 22nd April followed by a celebration of his life here at the Memorial Stadium where around 450 people attended, demonstrating just how loved and respected Paul was.

Paul is survived by his two children Mollie and Luke, his parents Mary and John and his brothers Brendan and Craig.

‘At the family’s request, we would ask all Gasheads to join in with a minute’s applause on the 42nd Minute of today’s match in memory of Paul Withey.

God Bless you and UTG!’