Gateshead FC is delighted to confirm the appointment of Lawrence O’Halleron MBE as vice-chairman, subject to the FA’s Owners’ and Directors’ Test.
O’Halleron is appointed to assist the board of directors and joins his hometown club having been recognised nationally for his decades of service within the Gateshead community.
Born in Blaydon, O’Halleron was honoured with the Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in the 2024 King’s New Year’s Honours List for his extensive contributions to the Borough of Gateshead – most notably in his decade as chair at Big Local Gateshead, a community-ran organisation which works to improve the lives of residents in Teams and Bensham.
O’Halleron is also the founder of Teams Wheelers, a Gateshead-based cycling group with over 70 members running three times a week which aims to benefit mental health, as well as acting as a director of Teams-based charity, Foundations Furniture, in addition to his involvement with a number of other community-based projects in the area.
“I’m really excited to be involved with Gateshead FC – it’s great for both me and my family,” said O’Halleron.
“I was first approached by Scot [Ryan, non-executive advisor to the Board], we were in Netherlands together with the cycling club when Bernard [McWilliams, chairman] was just taking over, and he needed support.
“I thought it would great to get involved, because I’ve always been involved with things that are going on in Gateshead, and I think that the contacts I have within the local community can help the club.
“I used to play football up until I was 49 before becoming a referee and a coach, so getting involved with a club the size of Gateshead is brilliant and I want to help in any way I can.
“I want to get involved with the local community and help them see that there is a pathway for progression for young lads in the area, but also keep ties with them so that they really feel part of the club.
“They need to know that Gateshead Football Club is part of their community, and that can bring a few more supporters in alongside that.”
Chairman, Bernard McWilliams, added: “The board of directors are delighted that Lawrence has agreed to come on board as vice-chairman.
“He joins the club having had vast experience of dealing with various authorities through his work at Big Local Gateshead, and he will undoubtedly prove invaluable to Gateshead FC as we move forward to streamline our behind the scenes operations.”
