Former Hereford United manager John Newman dies aged 91
Newman managed Hereford United between 1983 and 1987
Former Hereford United manager John Newman has died at the age of 91.
Newman, who was from Hereford, managed his home-town club between 1983 and 1987, and came close to guiding them to promotion from the Fourth Division during the 1984-85 season.
He also took charge of the bulls in two famous FA cup ties against First Division Arsenal, including a memorable draw at Edgar Street.
Hereford FC have paid Tribute to Newman as a "true gentleman" who will "never be forgotten by football fans in Hereford."
In a statement Hereford FC Chairman, Chris Ammonds, said:
“This is such sad news and while I never had the opportunity to meet John, I feel like I know him well as he is the first Hereford United manager I remember. Like many fans of my generation, it was his team of the mid-80s that made me fall in love with football at Edgar Street.
“The team that took on Arsenal and just missed out on promotion was one of the best I’ve ever had the pleasure of watching pull on a Bulls shirt, with players like Jimmy Harvey, John Delve and Mel Pejic, and local lads Chris Price, Stewart Phillips and Steve Emery to the fore.
“John will never be forgotten by football fans in Hereford as he was a true gentleman and a keen supporter of all our local clubs, and the thoughts of everyone associated with Hereford FC are with John’s family and friends at this sad time.”
Newman began his professional career playing for Birmingham City and featured in their FA cup final against Manchester City in 1956.
He went on to make more than 300 appearance for Plymouth Argyle between 1960 and 1967 before joining Exeter City at the age of 34.
Newman later became their player manager following the departure of Frank Broome in 1969.
He remained at the helm at St James park until 1976, making him one of Exeter City's longest serving managers.