Former Bradford City chairman Geoffrey Richmond dies at 85

Summarised from 2 outlets · 4 reports · Updated 3 Nov, 01:14 · Archive

Geoffrey Richmond, former chairman of Bradford City who oversaw the club's promotion to the Premier League in 1999, has died at 85.

Geoffrey Richmond, the former chairman of Bradford City, has died at 85. Born in Leeds, he took over at Valley Parade in 1994 and oversaw the club's remarkable rise through the divisions. Under his stewardship, manager Chris Kamara guided Bradford to promotion from the Second Division through the play-offs in 1996, with a memorable comeback against Blackpool before beating Notts County 2-0 at Wembley. The club then reached the Premier League for the first time in 77 years in 1999.

Richmond also played an important role in the redevelopment of Valley Parade during his eight years as chairman. However, his financial extravagance and ambitious spending on players brought the club into difficulty. After spending heavily on wages for players such as Benito Carbone and Stan Collymore, Bradford was relegated after one season in the top flight. A David Wetherall header against Liverpool had secured survival on the final day of the 1999–2000 season, but the club could not repeat the feat.

With the club in financial turmoil, Richmond left in 2002 as the organisation faced administration. Tributes have been paid by those who worked with him, including Chris Kamara, who said Richmond would always be remembered for the success he brought to the club. Others described him as charismatic and controversial in equal measure.

How it is being reported

• NOSTALGIA: Five of City's greatest games during remarkable Richmond reignTHERE have been some highs on the field for Bradford City over the last two decades, but not like the ones they had under Geoffrey Richmond.Telegraph & Argus · 3 Nov, 00:47
• What are your memories of former Bantams chairman Geoffrey Richmond?EVERYONE had an opinion on Geoffrey Richmond, who has died at the age of 85.Telegraph & Argus · 2 Nov, 12:00
• Chris Kamara leads tributes to former Bradford City chairman Geoffrey RichmondBradford City legend Chris Kamara pays tribute to former chairman Geoffrey Richmond, who helped drive the club’s promotions from Wembley to the Premier League.Telegraph & Argus · 1 Nov, 17:05
• Former Bradford City chairman Richmond, 85, diesThe Bantams reached the Premier League for the first time under his stewardship in 1999.BBC Leeds And West Yorkshire · 1 Nov, 15:19

In this story: Geoffrey Richmond · Bradford City · Chris Kamara · David Wetherall · Valley Parade · Wembley

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