Chesterfield Co-Owner Phil Kirk Dies Aged 59

Phil Kirk, co-owner of the League Two football club Chesterfield, has died at the age of 59 after a brief illness following a battle with inoperable cancer. Kirk and his brother Ashley invested in the club in 2022, and despite his diagnosis earlier this year, he remained committed to Chesterfield, attending a fans' forum shortly after learning of his condition. The club announced his entry into palliative care in August after treatments proved unsuccessful and has expressed a commitment to maintaining Kirk's vision and values. Chesterfield is currently performing well in League Two, sitting second after winning four of their first five games this season. Tributes have poured in highlighting Kirk's genuine dedication and positive impact on the club and its community. The club continues to operate normally with plans for long-term financial and governance stability being developed without considering a sale.