West Ham United have announced that joint-chairman David Gold has passed away at the age of 86 following a short illness.

Gold, a lifelong Hammers supporter, passed away "peacefully" with his daughters, Jacqueline and Vanessa, and his fiancee Lesley by his side.

A statement from West Ham read: "It is with deep sadness that West Ham United FC confirm that our beloved joint-chairman David Gold passed away on Wednesday morning following a short illness.

"The thoughts and sincere condolences of everyone at West Ham United are with David Gold's two daughters Jacqueline and Vanessa, his fiancee Lesley and all of his family and friends at this extremely sad time.

"A full tribute to our beloved joint-chairman will take place in due course."

West Ham's joint-chairman David Sullivan added: "On behalf of everyone at the football club, it is with profound sorrow and a heavy heart that we mourn the passing of our colleague and friend, David Gold.

"Of all our joint ventures, none gave us more pride and happiness than the day we took ownership of West Ham United, our club, in January 2010.

"David had a long-standing connection with the Hammers, having grown up opposite the Boleyn Ground in Green Street, and represented the club at junior level. He always wanted what was best for West Ham United, and his passing is a great loss for all of us."

Manager David Moyes continued: "I am extremely sad to hear this news and, on behalf of all of the players and my staff at the training ground, I would like to extend our deepest sympathies to David Gold's family at this very difficult time.

"Mr Gold was a regular visitor to Rush Green and always a source of great support and encouragement to myself and the players.

"It was clear that he had a genuine and sincere love for the club and was a true supporter at heart. He took a great interest in the people working behind-the-scenes and was always keen to help in any way he could. He will be greatly missed."

West Ham vice-chairman Karren Brady tweeted: "To a great man, a great friend for over 30 years and a complete gentleman - you will be missed. Rest in peace."

Born in Stepney, Gold grew up directly opposite West Ham's former stadium the Boleyn Ground, and he represented West Ham's boys' team between the ages of 13 and 16 before playing in their youth side.

Following a successful career as a businessman, Gold became chairman and co-owner of Birmingham City in 1993 with his brother Ralph Gold and David Sullivan, and they oversaw the club's promotion to the Premier League on three occasions in 2003, 2007 and 2009.

In January 2010, Gold and Sullivan became joint-chairman of West Ham, overseeing the club's relocation to the London Stadium and their successful spells in Europe in recent seasons.

West Ham will face Leeds United at Elland Road in the Premier League this evening. body check tags ::