Ex-Wolves kit man Derek dies

Former Wolves kit man and scout Derek Mann has died aged 63.

The West Midlands and Shropshire footballing stalwart died at the weekend after collapsing at home earlier this month.

Mr Mann was head football coach at Telford College of Arts and Technology.

He managed Telford United and was coach and physio for Shrewsbury Town.

He managed Chester City in the Football League, and was also a youth team coach at AFC Telford.

Tributes to Mr Mann, who lived in Shrewsbury, were led by AFC Telford chairman Lee Carter, who praised the experienced veteran for the work he had done with the club's youngsters.

"He was highly involved with the running of our youth team and managed the side on a number of occasions," said Mr Carter.

"He had a real passion and commitment for bringing some young talent through."

Mr Mann was physio and coach at Shrewsbury Town during Chic Bates' time as manager between 1984 and 1987. Mr Bates said he had been stunned by the news.

Shropshire FA press officer Neil Sambrook said: "Derek was a great servant of football in this county and we will miss him very much."

Colin Walker, head of sport and leisure at TCAT, described Mr Mann as a "passionate coach" who cared more about people than results.