George Ashton: 1928-2024

Everyone associated with Lincoln City Football Club offers their condolences to the family of George Ashton, who passed away peacefully on Sunday afternoon.

George’s first game at Sincil Bank was in 1934, and over the decades which followed he became one of the most recognisable faces at matches as he served the club across many volunteer roles. His remarkable commitment meant he only missed six home games in 80 years prior to the Covid pandemic.

He shared his passion for the Imps with his wife Doreen, whom he married in 1952, and they both made an incredible impact in shaping the club. George and Doreen were recognised for their dedication to the club in 2017 as they received the Imps lifetime achievement award. Their love of City was passed on to their son Chris, who has also served the club in volunteer roles with great distinction.

George and Doreen were regulars at matches for as long as their health allowed - and continued to show their support from afar while listening to matches via BBC Radio Lincolnshire when they could not attend. One highlight of their time at the club was being Royal Box guests as City lifted the Checkatrade Trophy at Wembley in 2018.

George is reunited with Doreen, whom we lost in September, and is survived by son Chris, daughter in law Wendy and granddaughter Davinia.

Lincoln City chief executive Liam Scully said: "George meant so much to everyone at Lincoln City, and there are not the words to do justice to the legacy and impact he had at the club.

"I owe a lot to George and his wife Doreen for the warm welcome they provided me when I first joined the club. The thoughts of everyone at Lincoln City are with their son Chris and the rest of the Ashton family at this time."