Grimsby pay tribute to ‘much-loved’ Hughes after death aged 38

Grimsby’s tribute

In a statement, the club said: “Everyone at Grimsby Town Football Club is devastated to learn of the sudden and unexpected passing of our Player Recruitment Lead, Alex Hughes.

“Alex was a devoted husband, proud father, beloved son, brother and friend, and a highly valued member of the Grimsby Town family.

“Alex joined the Mariners in 2025 and quickly became a valued and highly respected member of the football club. Working closely with Head Coach David Artell and the football department, he played an important role in shaping the Club’s recruitment strategy and supporting the continued development of the men’s first-team squad.

“Prior to joining Grimsby Town, Alex built an extensive career in football spanning performance analysis, recruitment and player representation. His experience included roles with Blackburn Rovers, Manchester City, Fulham, AFC Fylde and Morecambe, earning a reputation as a dedicated professional with an outstanding knowledge of the game.

“Beyond his professional achievements, Alex was deeply valued by those who knew him. His warmth, professionalism and positive personality made a lasting impression throughout the football club and the wider football community.”

Chairman Andrew Pettit said: “Everyone at Grimsby Town Football Club is shocked and saddened by the news of Alex’s passing. Our deepest sympathies go out to his family and loved ones at this incredibly difficult time. He will always be remembered as a valued member of the Mariners family who contributed so much during his time with us.”

Chief Executive Officer Polly Bancroft, who worked alongside Hughes, added: “Alex was a much-loved and highly respected member of the Grimsby Town family. His professionalism, dedication and warmth made a lasting impact on everyone who worked with him.

“I thoroughly enjoyed working alongside Alex and will remember him not only as an outstanding colleague, but as a genuinely kind person who had a positive effect on those around him. He will be greatly missed across the Club and beyond.”

The club closed its tribute with the words: “Rest in peace, Alex. Once a Mariner, always a Mariner.”

Family statement

His father, who managed Wales between 1999 and 2004, paid tribute to his son in a statement released via the League Managers Association.

“Jill and I are totally heartbroken by the sudden and unexpected loss of our beloved son Alex,” said the 62-year-old.

“Alex was a wonderful son, brother to Curtis and Xenna, devoted husband and father to Jessica and their two beautiful children Sebastian and Leonardo.

“Alex had many good friends and colleagues. He will be so deeply missed by us all.”

Grimsby said the thoughts of everyone at the club are with Hughes’s wife Jessica, his children Sebastian and Leonardo, his parents Mark and Jill, his brother Curtis, his sister Xenna, and all of his family, friends and loved ones. The club has asked that the family’s privacy be respected as they come to terms with their loss.