Carlisle United were deeply saddened to learn of the passing of former commercial manager Martin Hudson last week.
Martin, 61, passed peacefully after a short illness at Dorothy House Hospice, Wiltshire.
Son of Margaret and the late Eric, and brother to Stephen, Stuart and the late Graeme, he was a loving father to Ellie and Alice.
Also a much-loved brother-in-law, cousin, nephew and uncle, he was partner of Angie.
Martin was a lifelong season ticket holder at Brunton Park and was brought to games by his father Eric (who was a golden gamble salesman and match day boardroom ambassador) from an early age.
After returning from living in London, and attending away games in the south, Martin took his dream job of being Carlisle United's commercial manager in 1993.
He developed the commercial side of the business into a thriving enterprise, including nurturing the beginnings of the long-term sponsorship deal with Eddie Stobart.
The ‘deckchair’ strip became synonymous with the Cumbrians, achieving record sales, and the newly formed Red Fox label brought a range of club and leisurewear never seen before.
He became involved with the Carlisle United Trust, pushing for change through the late 90s, and was a respected speaker at their rallies and events.
Chairman Andrew Jenkins said: “This is such a sad loss. Martin was an extremely hard-working, likeable and infectious character and he was very forward-thinking in his approach.
“As our commercial manager in the mid-90s he caught the imagination of the business community and the supporters alike, and he was respected by everyone he dealt with.
“He came back to work with us again in 2010 and his enthusiasm was exactly as if he’d never been away. He had his own business interests at that time, but he was on-hand with advice and ideas.
“He had a deep love for the club and would celebrate as loudly as anyone when we scored or won. He became a friend and a valued colleague and we will all miss him very much.”
Jenny Anderson, the club’s current commercial manager, said: “It was such a shock to hear this news. Martin was fantastic to work with and he had a way of getting people to listen and talk.
“He was a pleasure to deal with and much of that came from the fact that he was a huge fan, and he wanted the club to be the best it could be.
“Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this time.”
A celebration of Martin’s life will take place at Carlisle Crematorium at 11.40am on Monday 17 January. Those attending are invited to wear bright colours.
