For more than two decades, Chesham United benefitted from the unwavering dedication of one of its most influential figures, Brian McCarthy. His recent passing has left a deep sadness at The Meadow, but also a profound appreciation for a man whose commitment, generosity and steady leadership helped shape the club through some of its most challenging and most joyous periods.
Brian first joined the Board in April 2000 and, despite a brief spell away, became an integral part of the club’s foundations. His influence was felt most powerfully during the financial crisis of the 2005/06 season, when he uncovered the seriousness of an outstanding tax bill that left the club just days from closure. Stepping into the role of Chairman at a moment of real jeopardy, along with others on the Board he rallied local businesses, helped orchestrate the critical Town Hall meeting and played a central role in delivering the rescue package that saved Chesham United from extinction.
It was during this period that Brian made a decision that current Chairman Peter Brown describes as “the ultimate act of selflessness”. When the proposed takeover required unanimous shareholder approval, three shareholders refused unless Brian resigned. He agreed immediately. It was not what he deserved, but he did it because the future of the club mattered more than his own role. As Brown reflected this week, “Brian gave up his title to keep Chesham United alive. Not many people would do that. It tells you everything you need to know about the size of the man’s heart.”
After the takeover was completed, Brian was invited back to the boardroom in 2007, taking on the role of Commercial Director. It was a position perfectly suited to his diligence, charm and tenacity. He brought in hundreds of thousands of pounds of sponsorship, drove the Corporate Patron Scheme to new heights and made sure there was always a match sponsor in place. Much of that work went unseen by the wider public, and Brian never sought recognition for it, but its impact was felt everywhere.
His return also marked the start of a long and valued working relationship with manager Andy Leese, who remembers Brian with enormous warmth. “Brian and I worked together for many years after I arrived at Chesham,” Leese said. “Brian’s experience in football, his deep knowledge of the game and its rules made him an ideal chairman. We had some great times in some difficult years when the club was financially challenged. Brian always worked a way out of any difficulties and he gave us great support to keep us on the pitch. I’d like to think we repaid his support with some fabulous days in the FA Cup and some memorable play-off campaigns. We always solved any problems with a morning coffee at Brian’s house and I always appreciated his wise counsel. A sad loss to the club and to the game in general. Rest easy chairman.”
In 2010, when the club transitioned into supporters-run ownership, Brian’s calm judgement and experience became even more important. Those qualities were put to the test during the unusual and dramatic events of 2011, when, following a late-game incident against Redditch, the Southern League ordered a replay. Brian, serving both Chesham United and the league itself, found himself in an unenviable position, yet alongside then-Chairman Alan Calder he led a successful appeal at Wembley. Calder, who worked closely with Brian for many years and became one of his closest allies at the club, reflected this week on their partnership. “I learnt so much from Brian during our time at Chesham United,” he said. “We shared a passion to do what is best for the club and make it successful. We did not always see eye to eye and had the odd ding-dong, but it was always because we both cared so much. Between us we hatched some schemes, took some risks and went on a fantastic journey together on the Board of the club. It didn’t matter which of us was Chairman at the time, we worked as a team. He was a great servant to the club, few will know exactly how much he did, but his legacy will live on.”
By 2013 the club found itself facing further financial challenges, now without the safety net of a benefactor. Brian’s wide network of contacts proved invaluable as he helped bring significant sponsor Roger Payne into the fold, stabilising the club at a crucial moment. He stepped back into the Chairman’s role and presided over a period of great success, including two historic FA Cup runs to Bristol Rovers, Bradford City and Peterborough United, along with the unforgettable 2013/14 league campaign in which the club amassed enough points to win the title in most other seasons, only to fall just short in the play-offs in front of more than 3,000 supporters.
Through every high and low, Brian remained the same: humble, steady, supportive and motivated by nothing other than doing what was right. “Brian was everything a Chairman should be,” said Peter Brown. “Steady, selfless, compassionate and utterly devoted to the club. He taught me so much, and I will always be grateful for the kindness he showed me personally.”
Even in recent years, as President of the club, Brian continued to offer his guidance, his time and his quiet strength. He worked without fuss, supported others without hesitation and always kept the good of the club at the forefront of every decision.
Chesham United would not be the club it is today without Brian McCarthy. His leadership helped it survive its darkest days, his character steered it through countless challenges and his love for the club shaped some of its most cherished memories. As Peter Brown summarised, “We have lost a friend, a leader and a true servant of Chesham United. But we will honour him by continuing the work he cared about so much. His legacy will live on in everything we do.”
Brian leaves behind an enormous legacy, built not just on the decisions he made, but on the warmth, wisdom and quiet determination with which he made them. A gentleman of the game, a steadfast guardian of Chesham United and a man whose loss will be felt deeply across the club and far beyond.
