Oldham Athletic's Chief Executive Alan Hardy has been forced to step down from his role with the club on health grounds. Mr. Hardy is 61-year-old and lives in Saddleworth but has been battling cancer for some time and has now decided to retire. The decision marks the end of an era as Mr Hardy has been at Boundary Park for almost 31 years. He came as Commercial Manager from Mossley after successfully fulfilling a similar role at the non league club.
Mr Hardy said, “Deciding to retire was a difficult decision to make after almost 31 years at the club. It is two years since I was diagnosed with prostate cancer and undergoing major surgery. Earlier this year I had a course of radiotherapy and hormone treatment but managed to continue working, albeit sometimes from home. However for the last few weeks I have had to spend some time away from the club for medical reasons and that has forced me to re-assess the situation. I feel that I now need to put my health and my family first and I have therefore decided to retire from full time football administration.”
“Over the past 30 years I have experienced some exciting times and take many wonderful memories with me. The club is enjoying great success in cup competitions this season and I hope I will be able to watch them playing at Liverpool and hopefully at Wembley in the final of the JPT. I have great affection for the club and wish the chairman, board, Paul Dickov and the team all the best for the remainder of the season. I must also mention all the staff at Boundary Park who have given me great support over many years. I would also like to thank the many sponsors and supporters who I have met over the past 30 years and the many colleagues within football with whom I have made some great friendships.”
Chairman Simon Corney paid tribute by saying, “It is a sad day for the club and for myself personally. When I came into football, Alan mentored and tutored me and taught me a lot about football administration. And everybody knows the invaluable work he has done for the club. Alan has made the right decision because his health has to come first. However, I am sure we will still see plenty of Alan around the club and at games as he will always be welcome. On behalf of everybody at the club, I would like to wish Alan all the best for a long and happy retirement.”