RIP Norman Headphones Barker CAFC

Sad day for Charlton fans. The matchday fans probably all knew him either personally or by reputation.

a former work colleague is an Addicks ST holder and was there - the collapse occurred about 20ft away from him and he messaged me in bits - he didn't know the guy personally but he has been a fixture of home games for as long as he can recall - it would be like Helen the Bell was to us
 
The Charlton fans forum has a lot of moving tributes from people who knew him, seems he'd been going home & away for years, traveling up to places like Blackburn and Grimsby on Tuesday nights. Apart from his love for Charlton what stands out is his gentle nature, folk talking about how he'd just shrug and smile at the news that the train was canceled or the bus was late. Proper fan of a proper football team (take note those who've become entitled by City's ridiculous successes over the past dozen years.)
 
A much loved and lovely guy by all accounts. The tributes are heartfelt and its clear that he is woven into the fabric at Charlton Athletic. Apparently his family were at tge match on Tuesday night, the Addicks and Boro fans chanted his name in a classy heartfelt tribute and the referee stopped the game for Norman tonight. Heartfelt condolences to Norman's family, friends and all at Charlton Athletic. Rest in peace, Sir.
 
A much loved and lovely guy by all accounts. The tributes are heartfelt and its clear that he is woven into the fabric at Charlton Athletic. Apparently his family were at tge match on Tuesday night, the Addicks and Boro fans chanted his name in a classy heartfelt tribute and the referee stopped the game for Norman tonight. Heartfelt condolences to Norman's family, friends and all at Charlton Athletic. Rest in peace, Sir.
Just seen that on Facebook. Charlton put a shirt and his headphones on his seat, a mannequin with his name on, the club crest on the big telly with headphones over it and, which is just class above, included his name on the team sheet on the programme. Proper community club are Charlton, but this is above and beyond. Absolutely class by them.
 
Doesn't matter who you support, we all know a Norman Barker!

The guy (or girl) through all weathers is always there regardless of the sacrifices made to achieve it.

RIP Norman
 
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Please see below a letter from the club's Board of Directors.

We wanted to share a few words as we reach the end of what has been a deeply traumatic week for supporters and staff of the football club following the sad passing of Norman Barker on Saturday.

First and foremost,we would like to thank the wider footballing community for the outpouring of love we have received.The understanding and compassion shown over the past few days reflects the very best of the sport and its unique ability to bring people together.

Our sincere thanks also go to the Middlesbrough fans, players and staff who joined us in honouring Norman’s life at The Valley on Tuesday.It was a moving matchday, and we are grateful to everyone involved for the dignity and class with which the tribute to one of our most iconic supporters was delivered.

We were privileged to have members of Norman’s family with us on Tuesday.Their bravery and strength in such devastating circumstances has been remarkable,and we remain deeply grateful for their presence.

We would also like to thank our own fans,players and staff,not only for how professionally and compassionately they responded during Saturday’s incredibly difficult events,but also for the vital role they have played in ensuring we have been able to pay our respects in the best possible way since.

Tuesday’s matchday was a beautiful celebration of Norman’s life.We are now working closely with his family and supporter representatives to create a permanent recognition of Headphones Norm at The Valley.

A couple of fundraising pages have been set up and are linked below.We will be working with those who created them to ensure everything is aligned and that Norman’s family are fully behind how the funds are used.

We would also like to thank Portsmouth fans,who have launched their own fundraising campaign and have already raised a phenomenal amount.

It has been an incredibly tough week for many. We encourage anyone affected to contact the Mind support line on 0300 102 1234 (Monday-Friday, 9am-6pm).

Despite the sadness,we are proud of how our club and the wider football community have united during this time.Our focus now is on ensuring Norm receives the permanent recognition that his extraordinary support so richly deserves.

Kind regards,
Charlton Athletic’s Board of Directors
 

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