It is with great sadness that we report the news that Mick Beddingham, a lifelong supporter of the club and a long-serving volunteer, has passed away at the age of 82.
Mick’s association with the Spireites began in the mid-1970s as a supporter, running the Chesterfield Supporters Shop on Saltergate and organising/running coaches attending away matches. He travelled to all away matches as well as attending all home matches. He also began fundraising at this time.
Mick helped maintain the Chesterfield Cylinders (later Tube Industries (TI)) football grounds. In the early 1990s, the club approached TI to use their ground as a training ground.
Mick ensured the grounds were maintained, including grass cutting, replacing divots, litter-picking, shower and changing room cleaning and maintenance and kit washing, as well as ensuring tea and coffee etc were available, running raffles and collections for fundraising, and a range of other admin and practical work that was required.
By late 1990s, Mick had a voluntary role with the youth team/Football in the Community/academy.
Mick worked tirelessly seven days a week in all seasons and weathers. He travelled far and wide with the youth team in a support and fundraising role.
It is estimated that Mick raised tens of thousands of pounds during his years with the club. He also ran matchday raffles at the ground.
Mick was known and respected by many players, managers and families across the football community and beyond. He loved working with people and enjoyed seeing young players grow and develop through football and his beloved Spireites.
Mick’s long-standing association and work with the club was recognised and acknowledged through several awards including:
2016 – Player of the Year Awards: Outstanding Contribution Award
Fan of the Month Awards
A dad and grandad, Mick worked at the club until late 2019 when ill health meant he couldn’t continue.
Our thoughts are with Mick’s family and friends at this time.
