Freddie Fletcher Passes Away

Freddie Fletcher, the former Newcastle United chief executive, has died.

The 71-year-old, from Darras Hall, Newcastle, was diagnosed with asbestos-related cancer in January.

Mr Fletcher helped revive the club's fortunes in the 1990s and played a part in the managerial appointments of Kevin Keegan and Sir Bobby Robson.

He had been commercial director at Glasgow Rangers before becoming involved in Sir John Hall's takeover at Newcastle in 1991.

Mr Fletcher left the club in 2000.

A spokesman for Newcastle United said: "Newcastle United were very saddened to hear the news of the death of Freddie Fletcher after a brave fight against cancer.

"Freddie did great things for the club in the 1990s, especially in the early days of the Premier League, and helped re-establish the club in the top echelons of English football.

"He had great enthusiasm, knowledge and football expertise and he also played a key role in bringing the likes of Alan Shearer, David Ginola and Tino Asprilla to the club.

"Our thoughts in this time of sorrow are with his family."'Very sad'

Lady Elsie Robson, the widow of the late Newcastle and England manager Sir Bobby Robson, praised Mr Fletcher for his support of the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation.

Lady Elsie said: "I was very sad to hear the news about Freddie.

"He was a good friend of ours and when we set up the foundation, he was one of the first people Bob approached for support.

"Freddie was a great help and played a key role in the charity's launch.

"He was always passionate and enthusiastic about the charity and I'm grateful to him."

Mr Fletcher was a father of three children and had six grandchildren.

#RIP