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Howe pays tribute to John Harriss

AFC Bournemouth manager Eddie Howe gave a touching tribute to John Harriss following his passing on Monday.

John, a long-term supporter as well as a former groundsman and referee liason officer with the club, passed away aged 88.

The tributes have been pouring in for John as he is fondly remembered by those associated with the club, none more so than the current Cherries boss who told the Bournemouth Echo: "I spoke to John on Friday and he said he wouldn’t be at the Arsenal game but would be watching.

"It’s a nice thought to think that was the last game he saw.

"What a character! I will always remember laughing with him about so many different things and that laughter and spirit will remain with me.

"His loss is very sad and will affect a lot of people. Our thoughts are with his wife Deirdre and we would like to send our condolences to her and the family."

Howe also added: "Football clubs are brought together by a lot of different things but people really make them.

"Knowing John over a long period of time and seeing him at different stages of his life, he was unique in the fact that he was always positive, always welcoming and was a true AFC Bournemouth supporter.

"We will miss him greatly on matchdays. I used to phone him regularly during the week to talk football and will miss those calls as well.

"He will be missed by everyone."