There was bad news for Bradford Park Avenue on two fronts this week, the worst of which was the death of lifelong fan and match-day steward David Tempest.

He was popular with supporters, management and players.

His untimely passing pushed Jordan Deacey’s injury, in his comeback at Guiseley in Tuesday’s derby, down the order of concerns.

Bradford boss John Deacey said: “They called him Tank, and he was a lovely person so it comes as very sad news.

“I think he had been suffering with heart problems recently but it still comes as a shock to us all.

“He was a lovely, lovely lad with a great sense of humour. Things like this put football in perspective – it’s just a game!

“We are all just so sad at this time and our thoughts are with his family. It puts a different light on life – I’ll miss his wit and humour more than anything.”

Avenue’s Maria Bruce said in a statement on the club’s website: “It is with a heavy heart that I have to inform you all that Tank passed away in the early hours of this morning (Wednesday) in the Intensive Care Unit at BRI (Bradford Roayl Infirmary).

“A lovely lad who will be sadly missed, will always be remembered for his sense of humour. The world was no doubt a richer place for him being in it.”

Head steward and former City scout Shadow Parvez added: "My good friend David Tempest passed away early this morning - he will be missed. I only saw him yesterday and held his hand. I just can’t believe it, today he’s gone. Life is too short, god bless him.”

Former Avenue striker Tom Greaves, who is now at FC United of Manchester, also posted a message. “Gutted to hear the news that Bradford Park Avenue fan and good friend Tank has sadly passed away. My thoughts are with you and your family, RIP pal. You will be missed by so many."

Away from this tragic passing, Avenue have picked up with three victories on the spin in Conference North.

The latest one at Nethermoor against their nearest neighbours came at a cost.

Jordan Deacey had not played since suffering a double break of his left arm in a pre-season friendly at Farsley.

The young midfielder came off the bench against Guiseley but took another tumble and was substituted.

The manager, his father, said: “Jordan bust his arm again, in the same two places and he is absolutely devastated.

“It is bad news for the lad and for Bradford Park Avenue. We have tried to re-introduce him gently since the season started.

“He has looked sharp in training and he played in the friendly we arranged the week before last but for him to be back at square one now is such a bad blow.”

Deacey has been desperately trying to extend the loan spell of young Bradford City forward Louie Swain. The Avenue boss has been on the phone with Swain’s employers at Valley Parade.

Deacey added: “City have not said anything yet on Louie but we are hoping we can keep him for another month at least.

“But time is running out because his first loan deal was due to end today, so we don’t know if we will have him in the squad for tomorrow's Solihull game.”