Tributes paid to Dorset football legend who died aged 47

Chris Wilson was best known as the former Portland United FC manager.

Author: George SharpePublished 11th Jan 2022
Last updated 11th Jan 2022

Tributes are being paid to a beloved former Portland United FC manager who has died aged 47.

Chris Wilson was well known in the football community across Dorset.

He's being described

"Chris was an extremely well-respected coach, manager, and was very well known in football circles.

"I first got to know Chris when I was involved at Dorchester Town FC. Chris came in as the goalkeeping coach. All the young lads loved working with him. He was an excellent communicator and just put everybody at their ease.

"Football in the area has lost someone who is very passionate and someone that had an encouraging word for all players, old and young, and someone that spent time in trying to make a difference in those circles.

"Chris will most definitely be a loss to the whole area. As chairman of the Portland United Football Club our hearts go out to Chris' lovely family. We really do send our best wishes to them."

Richard Drax MP for South Dorset told Greatest Hits Radio he met Chris once. He said:

"People like him who devote their lives to local commitments in a totally selfless and wonderful way, and on the island in particular where so many people do just that, he is exemplar in that regard.

"My condolences very much to his family and friends. I know the island has lost a lovely man who has spent many, many years nurturing the football talent on the island."

Hear all the latest news from across the UK on the hour, every hour, on Greatest Hits Radio on DAB, smartspeaker, at greatesthitsradio.co.uk, and on the Rayo app.