Chesterfield announce co-owner Phil Kirk has died, aged 59, as fans pay tribute

Chesterfield have announced co-owner Phil Kirk has died, aged 59.

Local businessman Kirk invested in the League Two side in 2022 alongside his brother Ashley.

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A statement posted on X, read: “It is with great sadness that we announce that the club’s owner, Phil Kirk, has died at the age of 59, following a short illness.

“Our thoughts are with Phil’s family and friends.”

In March it was confirmed Kirk had been diagnosed with inoperable cancer but he retained his commitment to the club, attending a fans’ forum just days later.

At the time the club also released a statement about his illness, adding: “Work has already started on a robust long-term financial and governance plan for the club. This will be disclosed in due course but includes material financial backing on and off the pitch and does not include a sale.”

Heartbreakingly, earlier in August, Chesterfield confirmed Kirk had entered palliative care as treatments proved unsuccessful.

“Chesterfield Football Club owner Phil Kirk has been undergoing treatment for cancer in recent months,” a statement read.

“Sadly, despite the best efforts of his medical team, the treatment has not been successful. Phil is now entering a period of palliative care.

“Phil and his family remain deeply committed to the ongoing support of the club and its community.

“The club will continue to operate as normal, and we are united in ensuring Phil’s vision and values remain at the heart of everything we do.”

Speaking after that news, Chesterfield assistant manager Danny Webb told BBC Sheffield: “It is very sad.

“We spend a lot of time with Ash [Phil’s brother], you know, he comes in the office a lot and they’re such a lovely family.

“They really have, and a lot of people say it, but they really have got the club’s best interests at heart.

“And that’s said a lot, quite flippantly, I think, by people in football that I have come across but with these people it’s genuine.

“I remember seeing him when he was carrying the trophy down the Brampton Mile. I think the day after we won the league with a beer in one hand, the trophy in the other and then his brother walking alongside him.

“Those sort of memories we’re so glad he’s had.”

Chesterfield fans were quick to express their sadness but also their thanks to a man who had done so much for the club.

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One posted on X: “I’m so sad to hear this. Sending so much love and strength to the Kirks and the wider Spireite family. We owe everything to him and he will be remembered for the wonderful man he was. Rest in peace now Phil.”

Another added: “Rest in peace Phil, and condolences to your family

“Thank you for everything you have done for our club, you will never be forgotten.”

A third replied: “Never forget what you did for us Phil, fly high.”

Meanwhile, there were also condolences added by fellow football clubs in England and Wales.

Northampton Town posted: “We are so sorry to hear this. Sending our sincerest condolences to everyone at Chesterfield and all of Phil’s family and friends.”