Ken Hilton retires from Southport FC

Southport Football Club would like to extend a special thank you to current Club Secretary, Ken Hilton who has now decided to take retirement.

Starting his career in football at Burscough, he joined Southport FC in May 1997 from Skelmersdale, and was thrown right in the deep end twelve months later when he led on the administration for the FA Trophy Final appearance at Wembley. Completing numerous player signatures, probably into the thousands, Ken has been the sole point of contact for the club on the day-to-day functions, which includes important correspondence with the FA, League and First Team staff.

He leaves in his official full-time role, but the Club are extremely delighted to announce he will still be involved on a voluntary basis for home match-days, as well as being a mentor for the new incumbent during the handover period.

Over the years the 71 year-old has witnessed it all and has been a huge character at the club. whilst never wanting to take the limelight. He has quietly gone about his business to a high standard.

“I’d personally like to say a big thank you for all the support I’ve received over the years and the special friendships I have made.

My most memorable highlight whilst being at the club was funnily enough my first year here, where I was involved in two cup finals (Lancashire Challenge Trophy & FA Trophy), because I’d never experienced something like that before. I’m looking forward to still being around the club and helping out when I can, but I feel this is the right time for me to enjoy the other things in life away from football.

Finally, my sincerest thanks to Dave Barnes who has been more like my right-hand man since he joined the club on a voluntary basis, helping me with anything and everything.”

The club have no doubt that all those connected with Southport will join us in thanking Ken for his sterling and professional service for the 20+ years he has spent with Southport and wish him a very happy retirement with his wife Judith.