Bournemouth to hold a round of applause for one of the Cherries’ most loyal fans who sadly passed away
Paul Gethin Willis sadly passed away after suffering from cancer and a tribute will be held at the Vitality Stadium
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BOURNEMOUTH fans will hold a minute's applause in the 44th minute of their game against Burnley to mark the passing of one of their most loyal fans.
Paul Gethin Willis became known to the club's supporters as 'Number 44' as he always wore a full Cherries kit with that number on it.
The 40-year-old - one of Bournemouth's most recognised terrace characters who travelled home and away with the club for years through thick and thin - would also wave red and yellow cards whenever opposition players were booked or sent off.
Paul, who passed away from cancer this week, will be honoured with the moving crowd tribute just before half-time against Burneley at The Vitality Stadium at Dean Court.
Programme sellers will also wear black armbands in tribute to the popular supporter, while the matchday programme will also celebrate his life.
Hundreds of Bournemouth fans posted messages of condolence on social media.
@pmitch49 wrote: "So sad, didn't know he was suffering. Top man, what a character, a big miss from our club."
And Tom Jordan added: "Awful to hear of the passing of Paul. Dedicated #afcb fan who followed the club everywhere."
Even fans of other clubs paid their respects. Stoke fan Jade Denning tweeted: "Not a fan Bournemouth fan but rest rest in peace."
At Bournemouth's away fixture against Burnley at Turf Moor in December, Clarets fans showed their class when they gave Bournemouth player Harry Arter a round of applause, a year after the loss of his daughter Renee.
