One of a kind

Tributes have poured in following the death of former Hyde United and Curzon Ashton manager Gary Lowe, who tragically died aged 61 last week.

A much-loved figure in the non-league family, Gary enjoyed great success with both Curzon and Hyde, memorably guiding the former to a 3-2 victory over Exeter City in the first round of the FA Cup in 2008, before landing legendary status at Ewen Fields after claiming the Conference North title with Hyde in 2012.

Players and the wider football community have paid their respects since his death was announced, while a minute’s applause was held Curzon’s clash at Chester on Tuesday night.

Stockport Town manager Adam Jones, who played under Gary, Tweeted: “Gutted, Gary gave me my first contract at  CurzonAshton at 18 years old and had some amazing times with him during the next six years. What he did with that Hyde United team was incredible. A non league legend lost today.”

His son, Benito, who currently plays for New Mills, honoured his dad’s memory by playing in the Millers’ 1-0 victory at Maine Road on Saturday.

Gary’s nephew, Oliver Newall, the stadium announcer at Curzon, has published his own tribute on Curzon’s official website, which can be read here: https://www.curzon-ashton.co.uk/news/post/gary-lowe-more-than-a-manager