Bohemians 'devastated' following death of volunteer who served club for over 25 years
Tributes have been paid to former Bohemians matchday programme editor Alan BirdTributes have been paid following the death of Bohemians' long-serving matchday programme editor.Alan Bird served as editor of the programme since 2013, having initially started contributing articles during the 1998/99 season. The dedicated volunteer even edited his final edition from his hospital bed before his sad passing.Bohs paid tribute to the dedicated volunteer following news of his death. The club said: "Everyone at Bohemian FC is devastated to learn of the sad passing of Alan Bird, our long-serving matchday programme editor."A long-standing club volunteer, Alan served as programme editor since 2013, including right up to the end of this season as he courageously battled illness, but sadly passed away on Thursday night in the Mater Hospital, surrounded by his family."Alan's predecessor as editor, Stephen Burke, also paid a glowing tribute. He said: "Alan started contributing to our programme in season 1998/99, writing a regular 'Bird’s Eye View' page."However, it was when he revealed his design skills that one realised a distinctive talent was among us. As he took on more and more facets of its production, the programme began to look ever more polished and professional."However, his work wouldn't be limited to just the programme, and by 2004 he was becoming the club's go-to man for the designing of adverts, flyers, posters, brochures, all manner of things. He would never refuse a request for help, indeed he would surprise you afresh with something bright and cheerful that would catch the eye, exactly what you were looking for and more."Stephen also recalled how they almost lost Alan in 2011 when he underwent major heart surgery. Thankfully he pulled through on that occasion. Stephen added: "If anything, he now had even more energy, ideas and enthusiasm for Bohs and the programme in particular, and it was only natural that he would become Editor in 2013."It meant even more work and responsibility of course, but he relished the challenge. He had a way about him that encouraged new contributors to come forward like never before, and he was always looking for ways to improve things."Alan won the Premier Division Programme of the Year in 2023 - an accolade that Stephen described as an "overdue honour for our dear friend". He added that Alan continued to dedicated his time to the programme despite his failing health over the past year."With clubs far and wide no longer producing printed match programmes, Alan was determined we'd buck that trend and we did under his leadership," Stephen continued. "Amazingly he produced some of his best work this season, the issue in honour of Billy Young back in April proof of that alone."And how Alan managed to put together that final programme (his 248th as Editor) a few weeks ago, working from his hospital bed... well, that says it all really about the character of the man, how devoted and driven he was."A true Bohemian, he did all this in a voluntary capacity. He gave us so much that we can never thank him enough, I certainly can't. We have lost our dear friend far, far too soon. Alan Bird never forgot anyone, and we will never forget him."Fellow fans also took to social media to pay tribute to Alan. One wrote: "I remember when he spoke about what bohs meant to him a few years ago in a video - he really loved the club and worked so hard for the club. Such sad news, rest in peace."Another added: "Very sad news, an absolute gent and genuine bloke. He’ll be sorely missed. RIP Alan & sincere condolences to his family." While a third said: "We’re very sad to hear this news. A lovely and kinder man you couldn’t meet. Thoughts are with his family."Alan is survived by his wife Sandra, parents Bernard and Ann, brother Conor and sister Elaine. His funeral will take place at 11am on Thursday, November 13 at St. Canice’s Church in Finglas Village.Join our Dublin Live breaking news service on WhatsApp. Click this link to receive your daily dose of Dublin Live content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don’t like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you’re curious, you can read our Privacy Notice .For all the latest news from Dublin and surrounding areas visit our homepage.
