We are sorry to announce that Derek Breakwell – Whitley Bay’s secretary and member of the League Management Committee – has passed away.

Derek was also a member of the Northumberland FA Council.

League President George Courtney said:  “We are all desperately disappointed to hear of Derek’s death.  He was one of the longest-serving members of the management committee and was absolutely devoted to Whitley Bay.  It’s a sad loss both to the league, the club and non-league football.”

And league chairman Glenn Youngman added:  “Derek was the epitome of what being a non-league volunteer and official is.  We will miss his knowledge and experience.  All of our thoughts are with his family and friends.

“We will be asking clubs to hold a minute’s silence for Derek.”