SGSA marks the passing of former Chair, Paul Darling KC

It is with an immense sense of loss that we heard, this morning, of the passing of Paul Darling, former Football Licensing Authority (FLA) and SGSA Chair, and cherished friend and colleague.

His sudden unexpected death last Friday has come as a total shock, and the meaningful and touching tributes that are pouring in show the huge esteem, love and respect in which Paul was held.

He was an exceptional chair. A sharp mind and a great listener, he had an ability to take on the varying views, and somehow find alignment and a way forward.

His huge personality, booming voice, and great sense of humour made an impression wherever he was known. He used to make me chuckle when he described himself as having the ‘sharpest elbows in the room’ when he was out and about representing the SGSA and wanting to make new friends. He constantly opened doors to new and existing stakeholders and I remember I was particularly pleased when he told us he was going to meet the Football Supporters Association.

He oversaw the transition of the FLA to the SGSA and was instrumental in the representations that ensured the SGSA continued to flourish in its crucial role.

He cared deeply about the SGSA’s work, and personally I will always be grateful for his mentoring – he was always happy to discuss ideas (even when I brought him those which were, back then, controversial!) and guide me, and it was an absolute privilege to be in his company and to be able to call him a friend.

He was also very proud of his northeastern roots, and I loved talking football with him, especially revelling in the banter about players who played for both of our Clubs. However, he was particularly proud of his grandfather, Jack Allen, who played for Newcastle United, including scoring 2 goals to help Newcastle win the 1932 FA Cup Final.

He will be so deeply missed, and on behalf of the Football Licensing Authority and Sports Grounds Safety Authority past and present, I would like to pass on our deepest condolences to Camilla and his family.