Man who fell from the roof of St Albans football club dies

The Hatfield Road bridge entrance to Clarence Park (Image: Archant)

Clive Churchhouse, 71, from Redbourn, was taken to hospital by air ambulance after falling while helping fix the roof of the club’s stand.

A relative, who wished to remain anonymous, said: “He did so much for the club and Clarence Park, and if you are to going to go, it’s a nice place to die.”

Mr Churchhouse, 71, was born in St Albans, and lived there for most of his life, until he moved to Redbourn a few years ago.

His wife Valerie and daughter Sallyann were taken by police car to St George’s hospital in London, where Mr Churchhouse died this morning.

He was involved in the club for over 50 years, making tea and coffee for half time, and cooking bacon butties for when the club played away.

In 2014, Mr Churchhouse helped Saints City Trust raise £4,000 for pitch reinstatement works at SACFC.

SACFC chairman Lawrence Levy said: “We are all completely devastated by the news.

“Clive was a much-loved character around the club with a big personality.

“Our thoughts and prayers go out to his wife Valerie, daughter Sallyann, son Keith and his grandchildren, as well as his wide circle of friends at this very sad time.”

Tonight’s match with Luton Town has been cancelled as a mark of respect to Clive and his family.

Herts Police and St Albans council are investigating his death.

Herts Police said: “Police were called by the ambulance service at 10.22am today to reports that a man had fallen from the roof of a building in Clarence Park.

“His next of kin are aware and are being supported by officers.

“The death is being treated as non-suspicious and officers are preparing a file for the coroner.”

St Albans council’s head of community services, Debbi White, said: “The council is the enforcing authority for health and safety at leisure facilities such as sports grounds in the district.

“We are therefore carrying out an investigation to establish the facts surrounding the incident.”