WANDERERS have confirmed one of their longest-serving members of staff has retired from his role at the club.

Andrew Dean, a well-known face around the University of Bolton Stadium for his work in the promotions department, stepped down earlier this month.

The club stalwart, often dubbed “Mr Bolton Wanderers” was one of the few remaining employees who had also worked at Burnden Park and was a popular touchstone for former players.

He also worked for the Bolton Wanderers Development Association, an independent company which runs the Goldline and Lifeline lotteries which have provided millions of pounds worth of facilities and equipment for the team and fans.

Staff members at the UniBol knew nothing of Dean’s exit beforehand – and the club was asked to keep their acknowledgement low key.

When pressed by The Bolton News for a response, a club spokesperson said: “We can confirm that Andrew Dean has retired from the club and we have respected his wishes for this to take place without any further acknowledgement.”

In 2014 he was presented with the prestigious Dave Higson award by the Bolton Wanderers Supporters’ Association, in recognition for his work.

His resignation as a director of the BWDA was confirmed at Companies House on August 25 but the lotteries will be unaffected and continue as normal.