CHORLEY Football Club are deeply sad to break the news of the passing of one of our 'Golden Girls', Maureen Wardman.
Maureen, aged 84, passed away peacefully in the early hours of this morning.
Maureen attended games at Victory Park for well over 60-years as an avid and beloved supporter of the football club.
She was part of a group of long-term female fans known as the 'Golden Girls', along with her friends Rita Charnley, Barbara Heaps, Dorothy Haslam and Eileen Hartley.
The 'Golden Girls' all pictured together (credit: Lancashire Evening Post)
The 'Golden Girls' name originated back from Neil Warnock, back when the now-manager was a footballer himself.
Maureeen and the 'Golden Girls' were well known around the football club as a kind-hearted, passionate and thoughtful group of ladies who would work tirelessly for the Magpies.
The 'Golden Girls' would often partake in programme selling, golden goal ticket selling and all kinds of different fundraising towards various projects including the youth section of the football club among others.
The 'Golden Girls', pictured together at Victory Park (credit: Lancashire Evening Post)
Club Chairman, Jamie Vermiglio said, "The news of Maureen’s passing is truly devastating for everyone at the club. Since my time at Chorley FC (starting in 2002), Maureen has been an unwavering and fiercely loyal supporter who has always embodied the spirit and authenticity of our club.
She was never shy about sharing her thoughts on team selection, player performance and was always on hand to share her views in refereeing performances! She was equally as quick to wrap her arms around staff and players, always greeting us with a warm embrace and puckered lips. Her humour, warmth and boundless love for the club have left an indelible mark on us all.
Her familiar spot at the end of the bar, whether before, during or after a game, will feel empty without her presence. But her legacy, and that of the Golden Girls, will continue to inspire us all at Chorley FC. Their passion, honesty and dedication represent the very best of what Chorley FC stands for.
We are committed to ensuring that Maureen’s spirit lives on in everything we do as a club."
Maureen, pictured last season at the club's first-team presentation (David Airey)
Everybody at Chorley Football Club would like to take this time out to send our condolences to the friends and family of Maureen, and, in addition, to those of all of our 'Golden Girls; at this deeply upsetting time.
May you rest in peace, Maureen.
