'An absolutely fantastic life' - tributes paid to Forster
- Published
Total Sport have paid tribute to Chairman of the Sunderland Supporters' Association George Forster, who has died aged 99.
BBC Radio Newcastle's Nick Barnes said: "Heartbreaking news because we all felt he was invincible.
"He was wearing his red and white scarf, his Sunderland cap, he was holding pitch clippings from the Stadium of Light with his family and friends around him.
"He's passed on in the way he would have wanted. The reaction already has been phenomenal. I don't think there's many that don't know about George."
Former Black Cats striker Marco Gabbiadini said: "He's one of the first people I remember meeting around the club in a very different era.
"When you did see him he always had a little memory from the past or took up a conversation as if you'd spoken every week for years.
"A really proper bloke and just knew everything about the club and its history. He's one of the people who helped you learn about the club when you spoke to him.
"He was a great bloke, a great character, and well known by everyone associated with the club. He lived an absolutely fantastic life and he will be sorely missed."
A statement from Sunderland read:
"Everyone at Sunderland AFC is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of lifelong supporter, George Forster.
"George was red and white to the core and became one of the most cherished figures in the Club's fan base. Rest in peace, George. You will never be forgotten."
