TRIBUTES have been paid to the former England captain, World Cup winner and Blackpool great Jimmy Armfield, who has died at the age of 82.

Armfield, who played 627 matches in 17 years for his only club and was part of Sir Alf Ramsey's victorious squad in 1966, was diagnosed with cancer for a second time last year.

He was one of two Blackpool players, along with Alan Ball, named in England's 1966 World Cup winning squad, although injury denied him an appearance at the tournament due to injury.

Only players who were on the pitch in the final received winners' medal but what was rectified 43 years later when Armfield eventually received his medal.

Armfield, made a CBE in 2009 for services to the Lancashire community, had stints in management with Bolton and Leeds before moving into broadcasting where he spent more than 30 years working for the BBC.

In 2001, Jimmy was honoured as one of the first lay canons at Blackburn Cathedral.

To receive a lay canon is the church equivalent of receiving an OBE, Blackburn Cathedral's Canon, Andrew Hindley, said.

Canon Andrew Hindley, who has known Jimmy for more than 20 years, said: "Jimmy was not only a devoted sportsman but an active member of St Peter's Church in Blackpool.

"I knew him and his wife very well and met him on many occasions.

"Jimmy was a famous footballer but did not earn much and stayed to his Blackpool roots.

"Sadly he had been battling cancer for many years and suffered quite a lot recently.

"He was very intelligent and a considerate person and was very supportive of the people in the community here.

"People like Jimmy rarely come along in life and to know him has been a privilege."

Current Diocesan Bishop, Rt Rev. Julian Henderson, The Bishop of Blackburn, said: “I am very sorry to hear of the death of the legendary Jimmy Armfield. 

“He has been a greater supporter of The Church of England in Lancashire and especially his local church where he played the organ for many years. Jimmy had an astonishing career and he was very committed as a Christian. So, at this difficult time we join with, and pray for, Jimmy's family and the congregation of Blackpool St Peter in mourning his death."

The retired Bishop of Blackburn (2004-2012) Rt Rev. Nicholas Reade, knew Jimmy well.

He said: “I am so sad – Jimmy Armfield was one of the first people to welcome me to the Diocese when I arrived in 2004 and I will always remember his warm smile and warm handshake; his hospitality and generosity.

 “His Christian faith was very important to him and helped him through the difficult times as well as the good times.”

A statement was released from Blackpool FC, who were 'deeply saddened' by the news.

They said: "Blackpool Football Club is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of its record appearance holder and vice-president Jimmy Armfield at the age of 82.

"Our heartfelt condolences go out to Jimmy's wife Anne, his two sons, Duncan and John, and the rest of the Armfield family at this time."

Current Bishop of Burnley, Rt Rev. Philip North, said: “I remember hearing about the exploits of Jimmy Armfield as a young football fan and it was a real pleasure to meet the man in real life. I couldn’t believe such a famous sportsman could be found playing the organ regularly in one of our churches.

“He easily moved between the world of the church and the world of football and served God in any way he could.”