In Memoriam: Tom Hughes

By Paul Bowser

York City FC is saddened to learn of the passing of former secretary Tom Hughes, who died peacefully on September 18th at his home in Dunnington aged 88.

Selby-born Tom joined City in June 1981, with over 20 years of experience in a variety of sports and football administration roles.

His six-year period in the role coincided with a thrilling period in the club’s history, with the record-breaking 1983/84 season, and the five FA Cup matches against Arsenal and Liverpool.

The upsurge in attendances and interest during this time saw a corresponding increase in workload for those behind the scenes, especially Tom. He and his colleagues worked tirelessly to support several all-ticket matches, with countless extra hours spent on arrangements.

Tom was also central to the ongoing improvements to Bootham Crescent during this time, with the development of hospitality facilities and ensuring that the club complied with stringent ground safety legislation following the disasters at Valley Parade and the Heysel Stadium in the mid-1980s.

Tom left City in the summer of 1987, to take up the role of club secretary at Middlesbrough. He continued his career as Chief Executive at Darlington thereafter before retiring from football in 1994. He continued to work part-time as the city centre officer for York Council until retiring fully in 2003.

Tom is survived by his wife Marje, daughter Vicky, son-in-law Steve and grandchildren Grace and Tom.

Our thoughts and condolences are with his family and friends at this sad time.