A LONG-STANDING director and former chairman of Alloa Athletic has sadly passed away.

Patrick “Pat” Lawlor died on Friday, July 26, aged 89, and had devoted just short of 50 years’ service to the club.

Joining Alloa as a director in 1977, he served a full term until 2011, whereby he was made an honorary director from 2012 onwards.

In addition to serving as a director, Pat stood as club chairman on four occasions, each lasting two season.

His first term lasted from 1985-1987 before stepping back into the role from 1991-1993, with his third term running from 1995-1997.

Lastly, he served as club chairman for a final time from 2006-2008, before resigning from the board three years later.

John Glencross, club historian for Alloa, wrote a tribute to Pat, which can be found on the club website.

He wrote: “Pat’s grasp of the game and his opinion and counsel were well appreciated – indeed directors, managers and players, not just from Alloa, often sought his advice on the game.

“A great servant to the club, he rarely missed a game, home or away, until his recent illness.

“With just short of 50 years’ service, Pat was ranked as one of the longest serving directors in Scottish football.”

Pat’s devotion to the club also saw him serve as vice chairman under two Alloa chairmen during his career.

He first stood in as vice chairman to Ronnie Todd from 1983-1985, with his second term lasting the one season in 2005-2006 under Ian Henderson.

John continued: “His charismatic personality and enthusiasm for the game were quite infectious and his services generally quite indispensable to the club for many years.

“Although he took a back seat more recently, Pat’s familiar face will be sorely missed from the Alloa Athletic FC board room.

“Our deepest sympathy extends to all Pat’s family.”

A funeral mass will take place at St Mungo’s Roman Catholic church in Alloa on Tuesday, August 6 at 10am.

From there, the service will travel to Sunnyside Cemetery. All family and friends are invited to attend.