Tributes paid after death of Preston North End FC Safety Officer
Mark Farnworth died on 5th January 2026
Preston North End FC's Ground Safety Officer, Mark Farnworth, has died, the club has said.
The club have released a tribute to Mark, who passed yesterday (5th January).
He worked as the Ground Safety Officer for over 12 years.
"Mark was an outstanding family man..."
The tribute from Preston North End FC reads, "We are devastated to announce the death of Ground Safety Officer Mark Farnworth on Monday 5th January.
"Every member of the PNE staff was distraught when they were informed yesterday afternoon of Mark’s passing. Their reaction was a real testimony to the way in which he was respected both inside the club and in the wider community.
"Mark joined PNE as Ground Safety Officer in February 2013 after 24 years of distinguished service with the Lancashire Police force.
"Everyone connected with Preston North End Football Club will miss him dearly as a colleague and as one of the most respected Ground Safety Officers in English football.
"Our thoughts and prayers go out to his wife Deborah, his children Hannah, Victoria, Laura, Grace and Tom, all of his grandchildren and of course his friends.
"Mark was an outstanding family man and was initially taken ill on a family holiday last July and we, along with his family must thank and pay tribute to all in the National Health Service for their professionalism and care over the last few months."