Tonbridge Angels vice-chairman quits due to health scare

Wednesday 06th May 2009

TONBRIDGE ANGELS vice-chairman Garry Pass has today announced that he is quitting the Ryman Premier League club on doctors advice.

The Scotsman arrived at Longmead Stadium two years ago and helped chairman Nick Sullivan make improvements both on and off the pitch.

The club celebrated ending their latest campaign in their highest ever position, third in the Ryman Premier League, although their promotion aspirations were ended in a play-off semi-final defeat to Carshalton Athletic eight days ago.

Mr Pass issued the following statement on the fans’ forum at www.tonbridgeafc.co.uk.

"As you are all well aware I recently suffered a double heart attack and was ordered by the medical staff and doctors to change my life style, which I am trying to do, but I am finding it extremely difficult," said Mr Pass.

"Since I have had the heart attack I have kept up my full commitment to the club and now that the season is finished I have had to review my position.

"I have recently suffered a couple of set backs and have now been given an ultimatum from the cardiac specialist to either change my lifestyle or the consequences could be fatal.

"After long discussions with my wife and family I have decided that I will have to sever all ties with the football club, this is a decision I regret having to take but when I weigh up everything my health comes first and unfortunately football comes second.

"I will shortly tender my resignation to the Board of Directors and will be looking to dispose of my shareholding, but this will only be to interested parties with adequate finances who have serious interest and commitment to the club.

"I became involved in the club to give myself a hobby, but very quickly it became a full time job, for which I have no regrets.

"In all honesty my personal business affairs and the football club both became stressful commitments which eventually became too much for me and have affected my health culminating in a heart attack.

"As I have done for most of the season I will commit myself to clearing any outstanding bills for last season and will pay for the remainder of the new perimeter fence being built during the close season therefore leaving the club debt free.

"I would like to thank everyone at the club for their assistance in my two seasons and wish the Club all the success for the future."

The Longmead Stadium outfit have nine players and manager Tommy Warrilow on contract for next season.

Visit Tonbridge Angels' website: www.tonbridgeafc.co.uk