We never ask for miracles,
But today just one would do,
To leave the door wide open
And see you walk right through.
We would wrap our arms around you,
And kiss your smiling face,
For you were very special dad,
Who no one can replace.

Happy Fathers Day
Love you always
Karen and Michelle

I am Harold(Sandy) Ruddick and am at present the President of Harraby Catholic Club in Carlisle. Last year I was the Chairman but my personal circumstances meant that I had to change my position within the football club
I have to say that I have had the pleasure on a number of occasions to have met George and I always found him to be entetaining and very knowledge.
I remember on the occasion of when we won the league and he attended our club presentation and he was wonderful company.
My feelings go out to his family. I have left this until now to contribute as I can understand the families feelings. I have recently lost my wife (following a long illness) so I can understand how everyone feels.

In my 25 ongoing refereeing seasons in the Northern Football Alliance, George was always a great personal friend and supporter of match officials. We have a lot to thank him for. What was even better was his exquisite taste in music - a big Atlantic Soul and Tamla Motown fan!! I know he will be in Soul Heaven now with Otis Redding, James Brown, Marvin Gaye etc. Enjoy the never ending show George.

DATE FOR YOUR DIARY - 28 October 2010 - Newcastle Old Assembly Rooms - League Dinner in honour of Our Deceased League Chairman Mr George Dobbins, Please contact our league secretary - Mr Derek Booth for tickets (£25 per person). George's family are very much looking forward to seeing you all there.

George was a very nice man who always had time for me as a newly qualified Referee. My lasting memory will be the time I made a mistake in a game between Northumbria University and Seghill. I got alot of stick, because of that mistake. I felt terrible after the game. George after the game took me to one side and gave me words of encouragment. This meant so much to me, and I will always remember George as a pillar of support. His words were inspiational, his memory will always be with me. Thank you George.

I first met George over 25 years ago,he was running St Nicholas FC and I was refereeing ,it was obvious he was a passionate about his football although everything had to be done fairly,indeed, he was a champion of fairness.Over the years our families became firm friends and it would be fair to say everyone loved each other.
When something really good happens in life, I have a saying ,"every now and then God lets you have a one",the day George entered my family's life "God really did let us have a one". It's our priviledge to call George and his lovely family our friends,he was an absolute diamond of a man,a true gentleman,loyal, forthright,but most of all down to earth ,what you seen was what you got.He was'nt the tallest of men but in stature he was immense.
God bless Carol and the Girls and God bless you George

George

it was an absolute privelige to know you, you always had time for everybody. football has lost a very special person. Many thanks for all the help, support and guidance over the years it will never be forgotton and neither will you!!!

kevin mulraine

referee
carlisle

I first met George about 12 years ago as he was seeking a new sponsor for the Northern Alliance , over the years George and I developed quite a close bond with him becoming a client and a friend . I also had the pleasure to meet his wife and family on a number of occasions and I could also see what a close knit family they were . George was a great organiser and was very much his own man . He had a good sense of humour and was a like able and honest man . I will miss seeing him and putting the world to rights and he is a sad loss to all those who loved and knew him . If in my life I am as well respected and loved as George, then I think I will have had a useful and productive life . Rest in peace George .

It was an honour and a privelege to know George. His contribution to the game we all love cannot be understated.

He offered support to players, committees and officials alike with a friendly manner.

I'll miss him, we'll miss him, grass roots football will miss him.

Mark Hedley
Referee

George was a tremendous help when we started our club and was always there when we needed help or advice. I only knew George for four years but in that time it was clear to me his love and dedication to the game and the Northern Alliance. We will all miss him, but all our thoughts are with his family. Thanks George from everyone at Hexham FC