Ashes to be scattered on the pitch

After passing away unexpectedly at the age of 60 in September after 40 years of devotion to the EVO-STIK League South club, the administrator's funeral took place on Tuesday afternoon at Gedling Crematorium with his family and friends from football and beyond gathering afterwards at Stokeld Lane to celebrate his life.

The stalwart's coffin was draped in the flag of the Millers supporters club during the service and the club say his ashes will be scattered on the pitch alongside Bill Stokeld and Chuck Fowler at the request of his family including sister Yvonne who broke the news of his death to the devastated Millers nearly a month ago soon.

The late secretary and committee member, pictured, had been at home recovering after a recent spell in hospital and the club paid a final tribute to the lifelong fan in a statement on their website recounting the service and gathering afterwards for those who couldn't be there.

The Millers said: "They say the esteem and respect someone is held in can be seen in who turns out for their funeral. Well all three managers Shelts worked with were there to say goodbye and two former captains in Stevie Garrett and Martin Ball, along with Millers legends Mark Dickinson and Ian White, all came and paid their respects.

"There were representatives from the Notts FA along with supporters, committee, players, coaching staff and physios past and present. Many of the current first team arrived for the wake, joining Danny Gordon and his father who were there throughout the whole moving afternoon which went on into the evening.

"His sister Yvonne and Millers chairman Mick Garton both gave emotional addresses at the funeral and the family have asked the club if his ashes can be scattered in the goal alongside Bill Stokeld and Chuck Fowler.

"Club physio Trevor Wells also unveiled a new club shirt with Shelts on it and the number 40, the number of years he had been at the club, a special moment indeed!

"Alex Troke and his family were also notable attendees along with Paul's former workmates from Nottinghamshire County Council and his former partner Julia who remained close to him and indeed spoke to him the day before he so sadly died.

"Julia, like Yvonne and his family and all the Carlton Town family, were devastated but can feel proud today of the send off they gave him and particular praise should be given to the family for the inspired idea to drape the supporters club flag over the coffin. Alan Murphy was delighted to oblige and proud indeed!

"Danny Elliot, Arron Hooton and Jack Steggles are pictured with the special Shelts shirt and a special football tribute from his family which will remain in the clubhouse. He would have been delighted with the turnout but at the same time unmoved, the way he always was!"

Images courtesy of carltontownfc.co.uk

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