Lairds pay last respect to No.1 fan

Feb 7 2007 by Birkenhead News

CAMMELL Laird paid the ultimate respect to one of their greatest-ever fans last week when they held a minute’s silence before their match with Buxton on January 27.

Both UniBond League Division One club’s players and officials bowed their heads in silence before the kick-off to mark the life and death of Billy Devine, who passed away last month aged 83.

With his trademark black hat and camera always in tow, Billy was a true character in non-league football and unquestionably Lairds’ No.1 supporter.

He was well-loved by both players and supporters alike for his unrivalled passion for the game.

Billy travelled all over the country in recent seasons and usually made his own way to most away games.

Not only was he a big Lairds supporter, but he was also a staunch Evertonian and enjoyed winding up some of the Reds in the bar after the games at Kirklands.

Lairds press secretary, Paul McLoughlin said: “Last season when we played over 70 games, we cannot recall Billy missing one. Even when we had to play the last 10 games over a three week period.

“Billy will be sorely missed by everyone associated with Cammell Laird FC and he will be long remembered affectionately by all non-league football fans who crossed his path.

“Our thoughts and condolences are with his family at this sad time. His funeral was held in Liverpool last Friday. It was attended by club officials, players and a bus of supporters that was arranged by the supporters club to enable his friends from away games to pay their respects.”