"Tony was pivotal" - Garstang FC pay tribute to businessman who was main sponsor and former director
Tributes have been paid to a prominent local businessman who was “pivotal” to the success of Garstang Football Club.
The club said they “couldn’t be where we are today” without the support and guidance of Tony Vile, who has died aged 71.
Mr Vile, who ran Rockform in Garstang Road, Bilsborrow, was the main club sponsor and had fulfilled various roles at the club, including spending time as a director.
A club statement said: “Tony is one of our longest supporters, with his firm Rockform sponsoring the front of our shirts. He was on the committee/board for multiple years, assisting with the move from the West Lancashire League to the North West Counties League. He was also the promoter of the “Score” Lottery, one of the biggest avenues that has seen our club grow.
“Everyone at the club sends their condolences to Tony’s wife, Diane, his family and the team at Rockform for their loss. We couldn’t have been where we are today without Tony’s support and guidance.”
Garstang FC Chairman, Adrian Wilding, said: “Tony was pivotal in our development as a club. For countless years he has been our biggest supporter, sponsoring the front of our shirts, seeing the Rockform brand travel with us from the West Lancashire League to across the north-west in the NWCFL.
“He played a key role in our move up to Step 6, serving on our board during that transition, providing much needed expertise and drive. I first knew him when he supplied my business in Kendal, where he had a business, and have enjoyed a friendship with him since. My thoughts go to Diane and his family at this tough time.”
Funeral details
Tony’s funeral will take place at 1.30pm on March 11 at Preston Crematorium, and then onto the Royal Oak in Garstang.
A minute’s silence is planned for an upcoming game.
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