West Didsbury and Chorlton AFC sadly lost a member of its team on Thursday following the sudden death of Paul Settle.

Paul, father of our former First Team captain and manager Steve Settle, was a key member of our club staff. He undertook numerous roles including head gateman and as part of the hospitality team, and witnessed the huge growth in West’s fan base after the club was promoted to the NWCFL Premier Division.

More as a way of letting people know than anything else but I’m devastated to say that my Dad passed away at home yesterday evening. � pic.twitter.com/bJit3E7z90

— steve settle (@setts7) January 29, 2021

Steve Eckersley, club chairman, said: “Paul will be sadly missed. He was a huge follower and passionate fan of non-league football and followed and supported Steve throughout his playing career. When Steve joined West we gained two fantastic team players – Steve and his dad Paul.

“Paul volunteered as our gateman and was also part of our hospitality team – at home and away. He was an ever present, travelling to all of our away games up and down the country and he was an integral part of the most successful period in West’s history. Paul’s knowledge of football and his love and passion for his family, Bolton Wanderers and West, coupled with his sharp wit and humour, brought much pleasure to us all.

“On behalf of everyone at West I pass on our condolences to Steve and his family at this difficult time.”