A MINUTE'S applause for a man instrumental in saving Darlington Football Club will be held during the Quakers' next home game, it has been announced.

Harvey Madden, who has died aged 66, was the administrator who worked tirelessly to help save the club from financial collapse in 2012.

Tributes have poured in for Mr Madden and today (Wednesday, March 4), Darlington director Dave Mills said he will be honoured at the club's home game against Lancaster City on Wednesday, March 11 (kick off 7.45pm).

Mr Madden's wife Eileen and daughters Kirsty and Gemma have agreed to the gesture.

A message from Mr Madden's family posted on the club's website reads: “Could you please pass on our heartfelt thanks to all at and associated with Darlington FC.

"We as a family have been overwhelmed with the kind messages we have received about Harvey and it is a great comfort at this difficult time.

"We don’t need to tell you that Darlington grew to be more than a job to Harvey and he was so proud of the achievements of the club and the support the fans gave him during his involvement with DFC."

Mr Madden's family will be attending the club's match at home to Northwich Victoria on Saturday, March 14. Among the family members will be Mr Madden's five-year-old grandson Louis, who will be watching one of his first games of football.