In memory of Gordon

Pictured (from left to right): Alan, Karen, Roy, AJ and Frankie Bunn

Athletic have presented the inaugural Gordon Lawton Special Achievement Award to Roy Butterworth and Alan Howarth.

The award, named after Athletic legend Gordon Lawton, who sadly passed away a year ago today (Thursday), recognises dedication, loyalty and devotion to the club.

Roy, Athletic's club’s match-day press officer, and Alan, the club’s official photographer, have between them volunteered at Boundary Park for over 60 years.

During that time the two of them have become an integral part of the media department, and both worked closely alongside Gordon.

The award was presented to them by Gordon’s daughter Karen and her partner AJ, as well as new Athletic manager Frankie Bunn.

All club staff observed a minute silence at 10am in honour of Gordon and his legacy at the club.

Gordon started at Boundary Park in 1986, setting up a lottery in the commercial department, before going on to hold a number of positions at the club, including programme editor, club commentator, media manager and football secretary.

Known to many as 'the voice of Oldham Athletic', Gordon was a familiar face to all visitors at Boundary Park.

After 23 years of unique and often amusing commentary, he hung up his microphone to concentrate fully on his role as football secretary before he sadly passed away on June 14, 2017.