A controversial former football club owner who was once a safe-cracker has died.
Businessman George Reynolds took over Darlington in 1999 and set about building the club a 25,000-seat stadium with the dream of becoming a Premier League side.
But he was jailed for tax evasion in 2005 and Darlington eventually dropped out of the league and has since reformed as a fan-owned club.
Born in Sunderland in 1936, Reynolds had a tough childhood and got involved in crime, and served a series of jail terms, including for safe-cracking.
Later in life he made his fortune from business, including a successful kitchen surface factory in County Durham which in 2000 saw him placed 112th in the Sunday Times Rich List.
Reynolds was a controversial figure, and was known to confront his critics personally.
“There are those who enjoyed his company, found him entertaining, and admired him for his self-belief, determination, and achievements in business.
“However, there is also no hiding from the fact that he was a criminal who resorted to bullying when he didn’t get his own way.”
Broadcaster Paul “Goffy” Gough was a friend of the businessman and paid tribute on Facebook.
He wrote: “Those days with George on Century Radio were the best fun ever.
“I have also loved our lengthy chats in recent weeks via the phone.
“Rest in peace.”
