Former West Brom defender Paul Holmes has died at the age of 56 – following a battle with cancer
The 56-year-old initially joined Albion on loan from Everton before later making a permanent switch.
During a three year spell at The Hawthorns he could go on to play more than 100 times for Albion between 1996 and 1999.
It was revealed last year that the ex-Albion man was battling cancer with friend and former Soccer AM presenter Helen Chamberlain raising money for a television for Holmes to watch during his recuperation.
Sadly it was confirmed on Wednesday morning that the defender had died, with a number of his former club’s paying tribute to him.
Holmes had begun his career at Doncaster Rovers, before the first of two four year spells with Torquay United.
A club statement from The Gulls said: “On learning of his passing, everyone at Torquay United extends its heartfelt sympathies and condolences to Kate, the Holmes family, and all of Paul’s friends at this very sad time.
After a spell with Birmingham City, Holmes joined Everton. Former Everton team-mate, and current club ambassador, Ian Snodin said, “I knew Paul was unwell but I am deeply shocked by his passing. He was a fine player and a lovely guy to share a dressing room with. He got on well with all the lads and he was unfortunate not to play more games.”
Then following a loan spell with the club, Holmes joined Albion permanently and would go on to play 103 times for the club, scoring his only Albion goal in a 3-2 win over Swindon Town.
