West Ham chairman David Gold dies, aged 86

West Ham United have announced the death of joint-chairman David Gold, aged 86.

Gold was joint-chairman of the Hammers alongside David Sullivan after the two businessmen bought a 50% share in the club back in 2010.

A lifelong fan of the club, he helped oversee Premier League stability over the last decade, featuring in European competition and a move from the club’s Upton Park home to the London Stadium in 2016.

Gold was also chairman of Birmingham City between 1993 and 2009, seeing three Premier League promotions under his stewardship.

A statement on the West Ham website wrote: “It is with deep sadness that West Ham United FC confirm that our beloved Joint-Chairman David Gold passed away on Wednesday morning following a short illness.

“David Gold, 86, died peacefully with his devoted daughters, Jacqueline and Vanessa, and his fiancée Lesley, by his side.”

Co-chairman Sullivan also commented, stating: “On behalf of everyone at the football club, it is with profound sorrow and a heavy heart that we mourn the passing of our colleague and friend, David Gold.

“Of all our joint ventures, none gave us more pride and happiness than the day we took ownership of West Ham United, our Club, in January 2010. David had a long-standing connection with the Hammers, having grown up opposite the Boleyn Ground in Green Street, and represented the Club at junior level. He always wanted what was best for West Ham United, and his passing is a great loss for all of us.”

Current first team Manager David Moyes added: “I am extremely sad to hear this news and, on behalf of all of the players and my staff at the training ground, I would like to extend our deepest sympathies to David Gold’s family at this very difficult time.

“Mr Gold was a regular visitor to Rush Green and always a source of great support and encouragement to myself and the players. It was clear that he had a genuine and sincere love for the Club and was a true supporter at heart. He took a great interest in the people working behind-the-scenes and was always keen to help in any way he could. He will be greatly missed.”