West Ham United have announced joint-chairman David Gold has died following a short illness aged 86.
A statement on the Hammers' official website read: "It is with deep sadness that West Ham United FC confirm that our beloved joint-chairman David Gold passed away on Wednesday morning following a short illness.
"David Gold, 86, died peacefully with his devoted daughters, Jacqueline and Vanessa, and his fiancee Lesley, by his side.
"A lifelong and ardent West Ham United fan, David Gold was born in Stepney in September 1936 and grew up at 442 Green Street, directly opposite the Boleyn Ground. As a promising young schoolboy player, he represented the club's boys' team between the ages of 13 and 16 and later appeared in the youth team.
"After forging a career as a hugely successful businessman, his life came full circle in January 2010 when he became joint-chairman of West Ham United following the successful takeover that helped to steady the ship and protect the club's future during a period of great financial uncertainty."
