DUNBAR is in mourning after the shock passing of a much-loved figure in the town.

Geoff Cornwall passed away on Sunday, aged just 41, after taking unwell the previous day.

He was a well-known figure in Dunbar. His passion for the community saw him play an instrumental role as vice-president and acting treasurer of Dunbar United Football Club, as well as being heavily involved with East Lothian Labour Party.

Tributes have been flowing in for Geoff, who was born at the Vert Memorial Hospital in Haddington but lived all his life in Dunbar.

He grew up in Castle Street with his late dad John, mum Millie and his elder brother John and latterly lived in Custom House Square with his mum. He doted on his two nieces Elly and Libby.

Having attended Dunbar Primary School and Dunbar Grammar School, Geoff’s first job after leaving school was at Mitsubishi, in Haddington, before he worked in banking.

“It is just a tragic loss,” Kit Fraser, Dunbar United secretary, told the Courier.

“He was a local boy, a well-kent figure and much loved throughout the town.

“The town is literally in mourning. He was one of my closest friends and I will miss him terribly.

“He was a lovely man, he’ll be much missed.” A minute’s silence will be held by Dunbar United tomorrow (Saturday) when they welcome Whitburn Juniors to New Countess Park.

His influence at the club will be sorely missed, after he became involved with the Seasiders about four years ago.

“The committee is all hands on, organising games, hosting hospitality, even fetching the ball,” said Kit. “Geoff had his family involved, he brought his mum and one of his nieces to help. The family commitment to the club was huge.

“He was an example of what a local community and committee member should be. His commitment was total.

“We tried to lift the profile of the club and Geoff was instrumental in that. He was the friendliest, warmest and most generous person you could meet.

“His spirit ebbed and flowed depending on the success of the team. We had a good Scottish Cup run [this season] – it was a memorable thing for him to see.” Davie Lees, Dunbar United manager, added: “The boys are all devastated. It is a disaster for the club.

“He got on great with everyone. The players all loved him. It is a real shock for everyone.

“He was a gentleman and a lovely guy who had time for everyone. He was always happy and pleased to see you and he was so supportive to myself, the coaches and the boys. He was always looking on the positive side of things. It is so sad.” Geoff’s commitment to Dunbar United and his friendly nature was epitomised earlier this year when he and Kit drove to Kent to pay tribute to one of the club’s most loyal fans.

“Geoff was insistent that we travelled to personalise the contact with [fan] Bill Huggan,” explained Kit. “We agreed we’d go down to London to meet Bill and just shake his hand.

“Geoff wanted to give him Dunbar keepsakes to reward him for his generosity and commitment to the club.

“Driving down to London was no easy task. We drove down in the morning, met Bill, stayed in a B&B in London and drove back the following day.

“It was an 800-mile round trip in 36 hours. That road trip was fun, he was great fun to be with.” On Dunbar United’s Facebook page, club goalkeeper Connor Wood said: “Geoff, my man, we are going going to win the league for you next season.

“You were my biggest supporter and I will never forget that.

“[You were] always full of praise after every game I spoke to you.

“I’m honestly in tears just now. Have a shot of Jagermeister on me, mate.” Geoff, a railway enthusiast, had a strong interest in politics and was a key member of East Lothian Labour Party.

Iain Gray MSP said: “Geoff was a real Dunbar man, as well as a true Labour stalwart, a dedicated supporter and good friend, who had been an excellent chair of the local party over the last few years.

“His sudden death is a terrible tragedy and my thoughts are obviously with his family and friends at this difficult time.

“I know local members will remember Geoff with great affection and that he will be sorely missed by everyone in the party in East Lothian.” Geoff will be received into Our Lady of the Waves RC Church in Dunbar on Monday at 4.30pm, with a funeral mass being held there on Tuesday at 10am, followed by a committal at Mortonhall Crematorium Main Chapel at noon.