Nantwich Town were saddened to hear that long time supporter Jim Kettle passed away recently at the age of 97 .
Jim was and is a true legend , having supported his local team since the age of eight back in 1927 . He rarely missed a Dabbers game as a supporter and soon became an active member of the back room set up , becoming the clubs Vice President in 1983-84 . He then moved onto the Committee in 1984 and held that position for 13 years . In 1997 , he was given the prestigious title of Honorary Vice President , a role he held until 2010 when the role was discontinued due to a change of the clubs board and operating structure .
His long association , passion and dedication to the Dabbers was honoured when he won the National Fan of the Year award in 2008 . He was nominated by Joan Jones and his name received more than 120 signatures . Jones gave a moving tribute to Jim at the time : " What can we say about gentleman Jim Kettle ? He may be small in stature , but his is truly great in spirit .
“ He has supported Nantwich Town for 80 of his 88 years , missing the 1933 Cheshire Cup Final as he was only 12 and now allowed to travel to away games . Since then he has become a committee member , painted goal posts , run raffles , cleaned dressing rooms and worked on the pitch .”
Everyone at the club send their deepest condolences to the family of Jim , with them in our thoughts at this difficult time . For anyone who wishes to attend the funeral for Jim , it is to be held at St Mary ' s Church on Friday 24th March at 11:30am . There will be a minutes silence ahead of tonight ' s game and the players will be wearing black armbands as a mark of respect . Rest In Peace Jim Kettle .