Paul Beard

Berkhamsted | 1965 - 2009

It is with sad regret that we have to announce the untimely death of Paul Beard, Chairman of Berkhamsted Raiders Community Football Club Club. Paul died suddenly yesterday and our thoughts and condolences go out to his family at this difficult time.

Paul was genuinely a great man and the best ambassador that our club could have hoped for – but more than that he was a good friend to many, as well.

Peace be with you Paul.

If you knew Paul through Raiders, or work, or though the local community, please add a tribute reflecting his contribution to the club, the community and everyone who knew him

On behalf of Berkhamsted Raiders CFC Committee, Colin Ivey

Your Memories

I would like to offer my sincerest condolences to Carolyn, Ben, Molly and Sophie. I was devastated to hear the news about Paul this morning. He was a truly inspirational man, a role model for all of us fellow dad's, both as a dad, as a person, as a Raiders leader and as a top bloke, loved by so many. His achievements in turning the Raiders into what they are today are a massive credit to Paul, his legacy with the Raiders will live on and on, beyond all of our lives and that is a measure of how much Paul contributed during his life, what a fantastic success he has been. His memory will live on in the wonderful family he has so sadly left behind and in the Raiders. He will rest in peace with this memory and this fantastic legacy. All my prayers are with you Paul. You are a top man. God bless you. From one of your Raiders under-8's management team, Steve Freeman Steve Freeman — 16.01.2009

Paul has been the driving force behind the resurgence of the Raiders Club in recent years, His enthusiasm, dedication, and leadership has contributed massively to the Club and the local community. Hundreds of kids around Berkhamsted are enjoying their football. And a great deal of that is down to Paul.

He was, as they say, a "thoroughly nice bloke", and a shining example to all those who have worked alongside him at Raiders.

He will be sadly missed. Keith Pollard — 16.01.2009

Paul has left his mark via the the hundreds of youth footballers who represent their club - Berkhamsted Raiders - every week on pitches throughout the Herts area. He was a great club chairman and a great person who has left us a lasting legacy to continue in his memory. Chris Bourke (manager Raiders U10 Blues). Chris Bourke — 16.01.2009

This tribute was published on 16.01.2009