Celebrating the life of Maurice Watkins

All of us at Brabners are deeply saddened by the news that our colleague and celebrated friend Maurice Watkins CBE has died, aged 79.

Maurice, a partner at Brabners for almost 15 years, served the firm with distinction. As the former head of our sport sector team, he was critical in establishing our firm as one of the leading legal advisers to national governing bodies, leagues, clubs and professionals in the sector. His knowledge and expertise helped shape many of the organisations we work with and paved the way for the next generation of sports lawyers at Brabners.

Professionally, Maurice will be best remembered for his 28 years as a director of Manchester United, which encompassed some of the most successful years in the club’s decorated history. Sir Alex Ferguson was right to describe Maurice as a ‘true gentleman’ in tribute this week.

Maurice also held an enviable list of influential roles throughout his career, including as chair, director or trustee of organisations including the Rugby Football League, British Swimming, Lancashire County Cricket Club, Barnsley FC and the British Basketball Federation. However, it was his services to charity that saw him made a CBE in the Queen’s Birthday Honours list in 2011, having raised more than £68 million for hospitals as chairman of the Royal Manchester Children's Hospital charity appeals board.

Our managing partner Nik White said:

“Maurice had a truly glittering career and was a towering figure in the world of sport, both nationally and beyond.

“He played a crucial role in establishing the standards that professionalised and improved sport, and that continue to have a positive impact today. He was also tirelessly committed to a number of charitable causes, particularly the NHS.

“More than that though, Maurice was a true character and gentlemen; and a great friend and colleague who made a huge contribution to Brabners, not just with his client work and by mentoring colleagues but also as an ambassador for our firm.

“Our thoughts are with Maurice’s family at this difficult time.”

The tributes that have poured in for Maurice are indicative of the man he was and how greatly he will be missed.