Our President, Jimmy Armfield, CBE, DL passed away peacefully on Monday 22^nd January at the Hospice surrounded by his immediate family.

It is a huge understatement to say that we will miss Jim. To Trinity Hospice he was our President, our most loyal supporter and an ambassador across the entire community over many years.  He leaves an astonishing legacy and all the staff, Trustees and volunteers here say that it was an immense privilege to be able to care for him, and his family. Our flag flies at half mast in his honour.

We know Jimmy was a public figure, but the family respectfully ask for privacy at this time.

Trinity Chief Executive David Houston said: “Jim will be very much missed. As our President, he was a regular visitor to the Hospice and to our events. He would read at our annual Light up a Life service; say grace before dinner at our Fundraising Ball, and on more than one occasion cut the ribbon to open one of our high street shops.  Wherever he was, people wanted to shake his hand and he made time for everyone, such was his generosity of spirit.

“He was witty and insightful, and knew many of our staff and volunteers. Over the years he and his wife Anne did so many good things for Trinity and for the wider community, it comes as no surprise to see the number of heartfelt tributes being made in the past couple of days.”

Head of Fundraising Linzi Young said: “I know he would be very touched by the donations people have been making to the hospice, and by the idea of Saturday’s match at Bloomfield Road. People will choose their own way to remember Jim and celebrate his life, but the fact that the hospice which was so close to his heart will benefit, is a fitting tribute to him.”

UPDATE: Donations to Trinity Hospice made in Jim’s memory have topped £20,000. Thank you to Blackpool Football Club, to all supporters in the town and beyond; and to all the people who have given so generously to the cause which meant so much to Jim and his family. We are so grateful.