Tributes paid to lifelong Charlton Athletic fan Paul Wood

Paul Wood, who has followed Charlton home and away for over 50 years, has sadly died following a short illness at the age of 58.

The 58-year-old owned a season ticket in the North Lower with his son Ross, and members of the club have claimed 'the Valley will never be the same' in his absence.

Paul was also the long-serving managing director at Andrews Sykes, a heating and air-conditioning hire company who have sponsored and partnered with the Addicks for several years.

And tributes have poured in for the superfan and father, compiled by the club themselves, who added that "the thoughts of everyone at Charlton are with Paul’s family at this time."

Andrew Sykes released a statement, saying they were "deeply saddened" by the news, and paid tribute to Paul, a "lifelong Charlton fan."

“Thanks to Paul, Andrews Sykes has formed a very close association with both the football club and Charlton Athletic Community Trust – something he was very proud of.

“After joining Andrews Sykes as a pump apprentice in 1978, Paul held numerous positions covering all factions of the business before being appointed Group Managing Director in 2006.

“Since Paul’s appointment, the company has flourished under his stewardship and penchant for investing in equipment, property, but most importantly, people.

“Paul was responsible for implementing a robust and experienced Senior Management team, who will continue to build on the foundations that Paul worked so tirelessly to put in place.

“Paul is greatly missed by everyone, with our thoughts and prayers very much with his family and many friends during this sad time.”

Ross Wood said his father had followed Charlton home and away along with his friends and family for over 50 years.

"As soon as I was old enough he took me with him, I'm so blessed to have shared so many wonderful memories with him following this club.

"I'll miss him greatly. The Valley will never be quite right for me without him there."

Close friend Craig Harwood continued, calling Paul a 'constant' at the club he loved for over a half century.

"He was the best away day companion as we travelled to almost every ground in the country and his passion never dimmed even through the days away from The Valley.

"Decades of memories can't be condensed to a few lines, but Charlton will never be the same without him.”

Charlton Athletic's commercial manager Ravi Patel also weighed in on his colleague and friend of 16 years.

"He was always a pleasure to deal with and a true Charlton fan. Our thoughts are with his friends and family at this very difficult time.

“His commitment, loyalty and passion for Charlton were there for everyone to see and he will be truly missed at The Valley.”

A statement to the London Stock Exchange said: "Our thoughts and prayers are with Paul's family and all his colleagues across the group, many of whom have worked with Paul for many years.

"Having risen to the top of the business, his leadership has been exemplary, and he has delivered excellent and consistent returns for shareholders.

"Equally, he has built a strong management team around him and in Carl Webb we have a fine leader who has been the group's acting managing director since Paul's illness was announced."