Non-League Paper

Earls mourn legend Sharpe

The man described as “Mr Earlswood Town”, John Sharpe, has passed away at the age of 88.

by
The Non-League Football Paper Team
31 May 2026

By Neil Harvey

MISSED: John Sharpe

The man described as “Mr Earlswood Town”, John Sharpe, has passed away at the age of 88.

Much-loved John was involved in a variety of roles since the Midland League Division Two club was established in 1968.

In recent years, John manned the club’s admission gate at their picturesque home ground at The Pavilions and produced the matchday programme, while acting as the driving force behind ensuring the Earls remained respected in Non-League circles.

As well as club historian, John held the roles of general secretary (1968 to 1975), team secretary (1975 to 1988), and vice-chairman (1976 to 1977, 1980 to 1989, 1993 to 1997 and 2014 to 2016).

In 2018, and alongside fellow founder members Jill Bloxham and Jim Jones, John was specially recognised for his 50-year service by the Midland Football League.

Chairman Andy Walker told The NLP: “John was one of a kind with his own quirky ways but the sort of character that every Non-League club needs to flourish. He will be missed by all.”

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