A Charlton Atheltic fan who died after a medical emergency at a match against Portsmouth on Saturday has been named.
Norman Barker, affectionately known as “Headphones Norm” due to his trademark headphones, received medical attention at the stadium but later died in hospital.
The match held at the Valley stadium was halted in the 12th minute while Mr Barker received treatment, but was subsequently abandoned.
In a statement on Monday, Charlton paid tribute to one of the club’s “most loyal and recognisable faces”.
It read: “A true beacon of the Addicks faithful, home and away, Norman was affectionately known by fans as ‘Headphones Norm’ due to his distinctive look, which included a set of headphones either around his neck or in position listening to the latest results coming in, a vest with numerous Charlton and other football-related badges and patches on display and brilliant headwear such as his favourite ‘Davy Crockett’ hat, proudly emblazoned, of course, with his beloved club’s logo.
“Norman was a constant at every game up and down the country for 40 years, always supporting the Addicks through good times and bad with a smile on his face.
“Norman will be truly missed by all at Charlton Athletic and everyone at the club sends their heartfelt condolences to his family and friends at this incredibly difficult time.”
Mr Barker, a season-ticket holder for over 35 years, had been the subject of a special feature by Charlton Athletic football club before his death and was a familiar face at events.
“Charlton, it’s a way of life for me,” he said in the video about his love for the football team, adding that he first discovered the club after moving to the Woolwich area in 1968.
“The thing that stood out for me was the football, big crowds, the noise, and the fans, the total surroundings, it was fascinating. I’ve been sitting with the same people for 20-odd years, it’s like a second family. Home from home.”
Tributes poured in for the “Charlton legend” across social media, with player Greg Docherty writing: “Absolutely devastating news... From all of the players at the club our thoughts are with his family and friends through this extremely difficult time.”
One fan wrote: “He was the definition of proper Charlton, he’ll be deeply missed at the Valley and at away games, my thoughts are with his family and friends.”
Both sides stayed on the pitch for approximately seven more minutes before referee Matthew Donohue ordered the players to leave the field in the 19th minute.
Mr Barker was seen being taken away on a stretcher by paramedics after around 12 minutes of treatment. After 45 minutes, a tannoy announcement confirmed that the match had been abandoned.
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