MANCHESTER UNITED paid an emotional tribute to their beloved receptionist Kath Phipps following her death.
Kath has worked at the club since the 1960s in various positions, from receptionist to telephone operator.
She was a hugely popular figure and people like David Beckham paid tribute to her.
Now United have done the same by bringing flowers to the pitch before the Old Trafford match against Nottingham Forest.
They also had a banner reading “Thank you, Kath. United legend”, while there was a minute's silence before kick-off.
United had expressed their 'sadness' and 'heartache' over Kath's passing, and fans poured in.
A statement read: “We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of our beloved colleague Kath Phipps at the age of 85.
“A ubiquitous figure at Manchester United since the late 1960s, Kath worked for the club for more than 55 years in a variety of roles, but her contribution went beyond a particular job title.
“Having become a key member of the club's office staff in the following years, Kath later became a fixture on match day at the directors' entrance to Old Trafford, taking on the role of training ground receptionist, ensuring that every visitor to Carrington was greeted by the happiest of people.
“For regulars, that greeting would extend to warm hugs and friendly conversations, as Kath came to embody the family atmosphere that underpinned the club's culture.
“If Kath ever had a bad day, she never brought it to work; her positive attitude helped set the mood for everyone who entered the training ground, always ready to lend an ear and offer words of encouragement to anyone she met needed – whether they were megastar footballers, casual staff or casual visitors.
“Kath was a one-woman institution whose memory will be cherished by everyone at the club who had the privilege of knowing her.
“She said last year, “I can't imagine doing anything else.” Well, we can't imagine this place without her. Rest in peace, Kate.”
Kath's first role at the club was as a telephone operator, in 1968, when Sir Matt Busby was in charge.
Fast forward 18 years and she was one of the first members of staff to welcome Sir Alex Ferguson to the club, and he later moved her from Old Trafford to Carrington.
Kath also built a bond with the players and even appeared in Netflix's David Beckham documentary.
In May 2022, Kath was honored with a Service to Football Award – Beckham subsequently paid tribute to her, saying the “amazing” receptionist truly deserved “the award” for her services to football, but more importantly for her services to the club what I love and for you. Love”.
He said she was “the first person I saw when I walked into the training ground reception” and that he would be “forever grateful” to her for fielding letters from his fans.
SunSport also revealed how Beckham secretly visited Kath at her home before she passed away.
Sir Alex said she “was and continues to be a great servant to the club” and that the award was “very deserved”.
Wayne Rooney led the tributes to Kath, saying: “The heart and soul of Man Utd. Everything the club stands for.
“A legend who will be greatly missed. Thank you for the memories Kathy. Thoughts with family and friends.”
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