‘He was a rare and special man in so many ways’

A number of the Arsenal family, past and present, have paid tribute to former chairman Peter Hill-Wood, following his death at the age of 82.

Sir Chips Keswick: Arsenal chairman

The contribution Peter has made to this football club will never be forgotten. Peter was always a huge Arsenal fan and was chairman for 31 years, following his father Denis and grandfather Sir Samuel. His ambition was always to do what was right and best for Arsenal Football Club. He was a key figure in the formation of the Premier League and our move from Highbury to Emirates Stadium. Peter will be missed by us all. My thoughts are with his wife Sally and her family at this sad time.

Ken Friar: Arsenal executive director

Peter was a rare and special man in so many ways. He was intelligent, with an infectious humour that he shared with us all. He was an Arsenal man through and through, and much of what the club  stands for today is owed to Peter and the Hill-Wood family with whom I have had the honour of sharing my own life with since boyhood. He will be sadly missed by all of us that were privileged to know him. 

Bob Wilson: former Arsenal goalkeeper

It’s so sad to hear that Peter has died. He was a real gentleman like his father Denis, who was chairman before him. The two of them loved our club and always tried to enhance the Arsenal name and what it means to our many thousands of loyal supporters.

Arsène Wenger: former Arsenal manager

I am very sad to hear that Mr Peter Hill-Wood passed away. We all had a huge respect for the way he carried the values of Arsenal through the generations. He guided the club with vision, courage and intelligence. We will miss him deeply.