Chesterfield owner Phil Kirk has been diagnosed with inoperable cancer.
The 58-year-old, along with his brother Ashley, took over the Spireites three years ago and have since become the majority owners.
Under their stewardship, the club celebrated a return to the Football League last spring and are currently positioned 16th in League Two. A statement on the club’s official website announced: “Chesterfield FC announces with deep regret that Phil Kirk has been recently diagnosed with inoperable cancer.
“Over the next few months, he will be receiving treatment to prolong his life, but this is not expected to deliver a cure. Work has already started on a robust long term financial and governance plan for the club.
“This will be disclosed in due course but includes material financial backing on and off the pitch and does not include a sale. In the meantime, please give Phil and his family some time and space. Phil will be at the Fans’ Forum on Friday. No further comment will be made at this stage.”
Supporters have shown an outpouring of support for Kirk on social media, with one fan commenting, “We are all behind you”. Another shared their thoughts, saying, “Why must this happen to the good guys. Phil is most definitely one of the great ones, my thoughts are with him and his family at this terribly distressing time, sending much love. If there’s a time to show how we truly love the club, even in times of frustration, it’s now!”
(Image: Getty)
One devastated fan commented: “No words can offer any solace. This is awful. Thoughts go out to all the family and friends”, while Rob Elliott shared his grief, saying: “Dreadfully sad news. My heart goes out to Phil, all the Kirk’s and all his friends. Nothing else matters when things like this happens. One of the mighty spireites true legends and a guy the supporters of this great club will still be honouring for generations to come.”
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Previously expressing his commitment to the Spireites, Kirk had stated: “Why would we do it? Because it’s Chesterfield. There is no other club, obviously, that we would have done this for.”
Chesterfield are gearing up for their next match on Saturday against Newport County, where a victory could see therm climb to 14th place, potentially narrowing the gap to the play-off spots to just 10 points.