We are deeply saddened to report the passing of legendary Notts County reporter, Colin Slater MBE, at the age of 87.
Regarded by many as ‘the voice of Notts County’, having commentated on nearly 3,000 matches, Colin passed away peacefully this evening with loved ones by his side.
Chief executive Jason Turner said: “Everyone at Meadow Lane is heartbroken to have lost not only an iconic figure in the club’s history, but also a great friend.
“I have been incredibly privileged to have got to know Colin well since my arrival at the club six years ago, working closely with him on many projects, travelling with him to away matches and enjoying his company at social events.
“As everyone knows, Colin was staunchly passionate about many things, not least Notts County, and he was an inspirational figure to be around.
“Naturally he will be best remembered for his commentary work, to which he dedicated such a huge part of his amazing life, but he did so many other things for the club which must never be forgotten.
“These include playing a pivotal role in securing crucial investment for the club when it was on the verge of extinction in 1965, being instrumental in the formation of Lifeline, acting as a trustee of our Foundation and becoming chairman of our Former Players Association.
“His incredible efforts and achievements were recognised over the years with a list of well-deserved honours which include being awarded an MBE by the Queen for his service to radio and the community in Nottinghamshire, as well as Lifetime Achievement awards from both Sony Radio Academy and the club.
“Despite his deteriorating health which led to him sadly being unable to attend matches, Colin remained committed to his various roles and always took great interest in the team’s results and general affairs at the club.
“We will be remembering him and his incredible dedication with a minute’s silence at Saturday’s home match against Eastleigh."
Our all-time leading goalscorer, Les Bradd, who knew and worked with Colin over several decades, added: “I first got to know Colin in my early days as a player, when he was working for the Nottingham Post. I found him to be an honest, trustworthy person – someone I could consult with in good faith.
“We built up a good relationship and continued to have a great rapport after he moved on to Radio Nottingham.
“His support and help continued beyond my footballing days, especially with his dedicated work as chairman of our Former Players Association but also as an events host and many other things - all without ever seeking a penny from the club.
“There are many names you could consider for the title of ‘Mr Notts County’ but his has to be high on the list for all he has done for the club and the way he always championed our rich heritage.
“He was a great man and will be sadly missed.”
Dianne Jackson, chair of the Notts County Foundation, also paid tribute to Colin by saying: “I, and the other Notts County Foundation board members, had the privilege of working alongside Colin for a number of years, and we were fortunate enough to call him both a colleague and a friend.
"Colin embodied Notts County Foundation for more than 19 years throughout his tenure as a trustee, and his passion to help others was truly humbling.
“It goes without saying that Colin will be dearly missed by all but his memory, legacy, and name will remain.”
You can read more about Colin’s life here.