Forest Green Rovers have paid tribute to former director Martin Anns, who has died aged 67.
Martin passed away on 21 August 2026 and served on the Rovers’ board for ten years alongside his wife Jenny during the chairmanship of the late Trevor Horsley.
During his time at the club, Martin served as Director of Football and was particularly passionate about making football accessible to everyone. He played an active role in promoting the club’s Kids Go Free matches.
Martin and Jenny were awarded Life Membership of Forest Green Rovers in 2015 in recognition of their dedication and service to the club.
Although the family moved to Warwickshire in 2010, Martin continued to hold Forest Green Rovers close to his heart and maintained a keen interest in the club until his death.
Jenny will attend Saturday’s match against Gateshead on 12 September, when the club will mark Martin’s life with a minute’s applause in the 67th minute.
FGR Vice Chairman Phil Butterworth paid tribute to Martin, describing him as a “highly respected director” during the Trevor Horsley era.
He said Martin and Jenny served on the board at a pivotal time in the club’s history, when Forest Green established itself in the top division of non-league football – now the National League – while also undergoing constitutional changes and planning for the New Lawn stadium.
“Martin was a very popular figure, well known locally as a director of Stroud-based Philip Ford and Son, undertakers,” said Mr Butterworth.
“He was very passionate about his association with the club and kept up his keen interest after the family moved to Warwickshire in 2010.
“FGR appreciates Martin’s years of service for Rovers, which helped put the ‘little club on the hill’ on the national football map.
“All at the club send deepest condolences to all the family at this very sad time.”
Forest Green Rovers said Martin would be remembered with “great affection” by everyone who knew him.
The club has extended its deepest condolences to Jenny and the wider Anns family.
