Matthew Harding's family thank Chelsea for 'overwhelming' Stamford Bridge tribute vs Manchester United

Standard Sport26 October 2016

Matthew Harding's family have thanked Chelsea and their fans for delivering a "fantastic tribute" on the 20th anniversary of the death of the club's former vice-chairman.

It is two decades since the businessman died in a helicopter crash on his way back from watching the Blues play at Bolton, and Chelsea paid tribute in a number of ways during Sunday's 4-0 Premier League victory over Manchester United.

A vast banner was held aloft in the Matthew Harding stand ahead of kick-off, while each ticket was marked with the words “In memory of Matthew Harding.”

Harding's family wrote an open letter which was published on Chelsea's website, adding that the supporters' reception during their lap around the pitch was "unexpected and totally overwhelming".

In Pictures | Chelsea vs Manchester United | 23/10/2016

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Read the Harding family's letter in full below.

Firstly we would like to thank Chelsea Football Club for all of their hard work and effort in preparing and delivering such a fantastic tribute to our late father.

The club has grown significantly over the past 20 years and the fact that you have acknowledged our father's legacy in such a manner has touched us all deeply and brought back so many fond memories of him and our time together watching our beloved Chelsea.

We would also like to thank Mr Abramovich for his contribution to the events, in particular his funding of the Matthew Harding flag. Since Mr Abramovich became involved in the club we have experienced high levels of success, something that our father would have been so excited by and would no doubt have raised a glass of Guinness to!

"Last but by no means least; we would like to thank the fans along with the various Chelsea supporters clubs for their continued support of the Harding family. The reception we received during our lap of the pitch against Manchester United was completely unexpected and totally overwhelming. As Chelsea fans and season ticket holders in the Matthew Harding stand, we look forward to enjoying more success on the pitch together in the years to come.

KEEP THE BLUE FLAG FLYING HIGH!

Best wishes,

The Harding Family

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