Beloved Manchester United fan Darren Webb has died after a long battle with cancer, his family announced on social media. The news has prompted an outpouring of tributes from across the club's fan base.
Family announcement
In a statement posted on social media, his family wrote: "It’s with deep sorrow and unimaginable grief that we announce the passing of Darren (Webby) yesterday, on 12th August, after a long battle with cancer."
"Darren absolutely loved life, his family, friends, followers and his beloved United. We kindly ask for time to process this devastating loss and will update this platform with memorial plans in due course. Family of Webby."
Tributes from friends and fans
Tributes have poured in from across the United fan base following the announcement. Tony O'Neill from the Webby & O'Neill YouTube channel wrote: "Absolutely heartbroken to be writing this. Our mate Webby has sadly passed away."
"We’ve shared so many years together, so many laughs, arguments, United games, good times and bad times. We started this channel as mates talking about the club we love, and Webby was a massive part of it all."
"Forget YouTube and all that for a minute. We’ve lost our mate, and that’s what hurts the most. Anyone who knew Webby or watched us over the years knows what he was like. What you saw was what you got. He loved United, loved a laugh and could certainly give you his opinion. That was Webby."
"We know a lot of you on here loved him as well and will be absolutely gutted hearing this. Our thoughts are with all his family and friends at this awful time. We’ll miss you mate. More than words can say. Rest easy Webby."
Further tributes
Tim Burgess, lead singer of The Charlatans, also paid tribute, writing: "Webby went from working for us to becoming a close friend. His smile lit up a room and his off the record stories about United were a treat to hear. A true North Country Boy."
The family said they will update the platform with memorial plans in due course.
