Blackburn Rovers legend Ronnie Clayton dies

8:00am Saturday 30th October 2010 in News Photograph of the Author By Andy Cryer, Blackburn Rovers reporter

CAPTAIN: Ronnie Clayton CAPTAIN: Ronnie Clayton

Blackburn Rovers legend Ronnie Clayton died yesterday aged 76.

The one-club man, who made 665 appearances for Rovers between 1951 and 1969, passed away in the Royal Blackburn Hospital.

He will be remembered as one of Rovers' greatest ever players and a true gentleman from a different era of football.

Ronnie, a powerhouse right-half, made his debut against Queens Park Rangers in April 1951 and still lies second in the all-time list of leading appearance makers for the club.

He helped the club win promotion to the First Division in 1958 and was captain as Rovers reached the FA Cup final at Wembley in 1960.

Ronnie even marked Pele in front of 187,000 fans in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, and played in the 1958 World Cup.

He won 35 England caps and became the first Rovers player since Bob Crompton to captain his country and holds an iconic status around Ewood Park.

Ronnie, who lived in Wilpshire, leaves wife Valerie and two sons and a daughter.

The club said supporters would be given the chance to pay their respects to the former captain of club and country before this afternoon’s Premier League clash with Chelsea.

Rovers chairman John Williams said: “Everyone at Ewood Park is deeply saddened by the news.

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"Ronnie was not only a wonderful servant and ambassador, he was also one of the most popular men ever to be associated with Rovers.

"No-one had a bad word for Ronnie and he will be so very sadly missed.

"Our deepest sympathies go out to Val and all of Ronnie's family at this saddest of times."

Clayton’s former team mate and best friend Bryan Douglas admits Ewood will never be the same again.

Douglas and Clayton have become synonymous with each other in tales about Rovers past, having made 1168 appearances between them in the 1950s and 1960s.

Born within a couple of months of each other, the pair became firm friends after adventures with Rovers and England that saw them experience a World Cup, relegation, promotion and FA Cup final defeat together.

Now, as Douglas faces up to life without the other half of his double act, the 76-year-old described the void that will be left in so many people’s lives.

Douglas, said: “Ronnie had been suffering a bit but this has come as a huge shock. I can’t believe it. I am devastated and will miss him so much.

“Ronnie was a terrific servant to Blackburn Rovers, both before and after his retirement. He never let the team or the club down and not enough good things can be said about him as a player or as a person.

“Ewood Park will be a sadder place without Ronnie, it will feel different without him. He was well liked by absolutely everybody.

“So many people wanted to shake hands with him at matches that I used to tell him he was like Prince Phillip. Ronnie will be remembered for a long, long time.

“He will never be forgotten by the supporters, the club, his friends and family and anyone else who knew him.”

The great ‘Ronnie and Dougie’ double act continued to walk the corridors of Ewood Park after their retirement as they entertained guests and sponsors on match days in the VIP lounge named after them.

Douglas, said: “Ronnie may have been born in Preston but he was Blackburn through and through. He probably could have left Rovers a number of times but he wasn’t interested.

"He loved the club.

“ When I got picked for England he was like a big brother to me. He looked after me, he introduced me to all the players and made me feel at home.

“I will always thank him for that. Since we finished playing our families got very friendly as well and we went on holiday together.

"We have become very close friends. People associate us together, we have always been a bit of a double act.

“We have been such close friends for so long. He was in the Rovers first team before he turned 17 and became a regular and that shows how good he was.

“I just can’t believe he has gone. I feel for his wife and family and know how they are feeling. He will be sorely missed by everyone who knew him.”

Tony Parkes urged Blackburn Rovers to ‘win it for Ronnie’ ahead of this afternoon’s Ewood Park visit of Premier League champions Chelsea.

The former Rovers player, coach and manager believes Clayton is guaranteed a fitting tribute by an adoring Blackburn public this afternoon and believes a win would be what “Ronnie would want most”.

He said: “I used to sit next to Ronnie at games and there was no doubt he loved Blackburn Rovers and loved seeing them win. Beating Chelsea would be a fitting tribute for him.

“He was one of the club’s greatest ever players, if not the greatest, and he was well loved by the public and by the people at Ewood Park.

“When you think of Blackburn Rovers you think of Ronnie and Bryan Douglas. The three just go together. Ronnie will never ever be forgotten.

“He deserves all the praise and tributes he gets. My sympathies go out to his wife and family.”

Mick McGrath and Matt Woods, who formed a formidable defensive trio with Clayton in the 1950’s and 1960’s, have also paid tribute to their former team mate.

McGrath, who still lives in the area and socialised with Clayton, said: “He was Blackburn Rovers through and through. I still can’t believe it, it is just a massive shock.

“Ewood Park will be a sadder place without him. He should be an example to the present day footballers. On the pitch he was a great defender and off the pitch you could not meet a nicer guy.

“Make no mistake he was one of the best players around and he carried on serving the club after his retirement. He will be a huge miss for so many people.”

Woods said: “He was a real one-club man, a rare breed. What a player as well, he was up and down all the time, he never stopped running.

“He was a good lad and I said to Bryan Douglas when he told me the news, ‘there aren’t many of us left now’.”

Another former team-mate John Connelly, who played with him in the late 1960s, said: “He was a lovely genuine lad, and a one club man.

"I'm glad Blackburn Rovers did him proud - him and Bryan Douglas. I'm grateful I had the chance to play alongside him at international level and at club level as well.

"He was a great player. You don't get to be captain of England if you've not been at the top of your tree.”

Other former team-mates also paid their respects to a ‘true club legend’.

Dave Whelan said: "It's such a shock and such a sad loss for Blackburn and the sporting world.

"He was the nicest man you could ever meet and to play behind him was a great privilege. He was the fittest person I have ever played with or seen in the whole of my life.

"When we used to train every day, Ron and myself used to run from our training ground, which was two miles away from Ewood Park. We used to run and race each other back to the stadium and I could never beat him."

Mike Ferguson said: “I knew he hadn’t been well but it is a shock to hear the news. He was a gentleman, a true gentleman of the game.

“After they made people like him, Bryan Douglas and Billy Wright they threw away the mould. They don’t make people like that any more.

“When I made my debut at Ipswich, Bryan Douglas just told me to stay on the line and Ronnie would find me. He did every time, he would just deliver the ball straight to me, it was amazing.

“Ronnie and Bryan were the men who led the side back after the 1960 FA Cup final debacle. I think that really hurt Ronnie and he was determined to make up for it, and of course the supporters thought the world of him.”

Another Rovers favourite Kevin Gallacher believes anyone who has played for the club will know about Clayton’s legend.

He said: “I befriended Ronnie Clayton over the years and I am proud to have called him a friend. Blackburn has had a lot of greats but Ronnie and Bryan Douglas are the real legends.

“The two have always been a bit like Morecambe and Wise. Just a great double act.

“I know I played during the 90’s but Ronnie was still a massive part of the club. He always will be.”

Burnley chief executive Paul Fletcher, said: "I knew Ronnie, and whenever I saw him he always had a smile on his face.

"He was a Blackburn Rovers legend and a fantastic player.

"It's always sad to hear of these great players passing.

"Football rivalries are forgotten at times like this. The thoughts of everyone at Burnley Football Club are with Ronnie's family at this sad time."

According to Blackburn Rovers The Complete Record by Mark Jackson, Ronnie the player was 'akin to the modern midfield dynamo.

He wrote: "Strong in the tackle and powerful in the air, Clayton was a dominating figure in defensive situations.

"However, it was his ability to drive forward and switch defence into attack that caught the eye.

"His natural athleticism allowed him to surge foward and run at the opposition, while his football brain enabled him to instigate attacking moves with defence-splitting passes."

Mellor resident Bill Thompson, a lifelong friend, said: "There was only one Ronnie, and he had some great stories about playing for England.

"He was a great lad. They don't make them like that any more."

During his Rovers career Ronnie had operated a newsagent’s shop and, after a short spell as player manager of Morecambe, he worked as an area manager for tyre company ATS.

Ronnie also led stadium tours of Ewood Park.

He was also known for his support of grass roots football after his retirement from the sport.

Steve Frost, chairman of Wilpshire Wanderers Junior Football Club where Ronnie was honorary president, said he was a genuine legend and a true gent.

He said: "The stand-out memory I have of Ronnie is when he turned up for a presentation event with all of his England caps in a carrier bag.

“After he handed out the awards, he dished out the caps for all the kids to wear. It is something they will always remember.”

Ronnie also introduced a clubman of the year award at Wanderers.

Mr Frost said: "He said it was for players who played and conducted themselves in the right manner, just as he had done during his playing days.

“This is a sad time for everyone involved in the club. He was a genuine legend and a true gent.”

Billy Markham, secretary of the Blackburn Combination, said the league would hold a minute’s silence before today’s fixtures as a mark of respect.

He said: "It is very sad news as everyone had a good word to say about Ronnie.

“He came to a number of our presentation evenings and he never forgot his roots.

“He was a father of the town.”

Blackburn MP Jack Straw said: "He was a fantastic footballer, and a great man.

"This is a big loss for Rovers and the town of Blackburn."

Former Bullseye host and Rovers fan Jim Bowen: "I remember watching him from the terraces. He was one of my favourites - number four, England captain.

"He was an absolute gentleman on and off the pitch. We did some dinners together and he was a lovely man."

Fashion designer and Rovers fan Wayne Hemingway: "He was a very natural guy, and a natural player, and obviously a Rovers legend."

Former Blackburn council leader and Rovers season ticket-holder Mike Lee: "He was coming to the end of his career when I started watching.

"Back then it showed what a team could achieve when it was all about loyalty to the club. That's something lacking from the game today."

Neighbour Fred Wearden, 89, lived next to Ronnie for almost 50 years.

He said: "He was still playing when we first lived next door to each other. You would get a few fans coming round looking for him.

"He was a really nice man."

Betty Hopkinson, who also lives on the same street, also used to go on holiday with her husband Frank, Ronnie and his wife.

She said: "We had some lovely times. He was nice to be with, and very modest."

If you would like to pay tribute to Ronnie, please add your comment below.

Comments(117)

Dancin in the Streets of Bburn says...
5:14pm Fri 29 Oct 10

RIP Ronnie, met him on a few occasions. A geuinely nice bloke. Minute silence tomorrow I expect?

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Vinjay says...
5:16pm Fri 29 Oct 10

I know he stopped doing ground tours (becoming a big forgetful) and heart problems. He was certainly a very friendly, enthusiastic man when I personally spoke to him about 5 years ago on one of the tours.

Obviously never saw him play either due to age but clearly considered a top class player by those who did.

Makes tomorrow's match even more important. I'm absolutely certain there will be a minutes silence.

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Iii1111 says...
5:18pm Fri 29 Oct 10

great lovely man

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Old Git says...
5:21pm Fri 29 Oct 10

Sincere condolences to all his family, a true Rover and football legend RIP

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Old Git says...
5:22pm Fri 29 Oct 10

Sincere condolences to all his family, a true Rover and football legend RIP

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onlyonesimongarner says...
5:22pm Fri 29 Oct 10

Good night God Bless Ronnie.
A true gent and a class player.
And deepest condolence to all your family

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mellison24 says...
5:23pm Fri 29 Oct 10

Gutting. Absolutely gutting. Another gentleman and legend taken away :(

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mikebuk says...
5:24pm Fri 29 Oct 10

Nowadays a minutes applause is often used. I think that is better than one of silence.

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Stone Island says...
5:26pm Fri 29 Oct 10

RIP Ronnie. I spoke to him at a recent home game, in the hospitality suites. A true gentleman. His good friend, Bryan douglas will be gutted.

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onlyonesimongarner says...
5:27pm Fri 29 Oct 10

As and after thought. What about the new owners dedicating a stand to Ronnie ( and maybe also Dougie), and forgoing a few quid of the sponsorship money they are after, that would certainley endeer them to the faithfull.

How does about the Darwen End as the Clayton and Douglas Stand

Report this post »

Joey99 says...
5:27pm Fri 29 Oct 10

I met him on a Tour of Ewood Park earlier this year. He seemed frail then. A true Gent who will be sadly missed. RIP

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Vinjay says...
5:28pm Fri 29 Oct 10

I think a minutes applause is better too actually. Otherwise you might get one idiot (like at the hull city game) who yells out though most of them observed it respectfully. I'm most Chelsea fans will do the same because it probably will be a minutes silence. Its up to his family to decide I suppose whether they want it to be silence or applause.

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BlueSkies says...
5:29pm Fri 29 Oct 10

A true legend. An England captain, there aren't many who achieve that. A truly lovely fella.

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Tom A says...
5:29pm Fri 29 Oct 10

Gutting news, condolences to his family

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LanghoRover says...
5:39pm Fri 29 Oct 10

This is a very sad day not just for BRFC but for football, I have known Ronnie for many years, he had the locker next to me at the golf club up to the time came he could no longer play, he was also heavily involved with Junior football particularly Wilpshire Wanders, my sons proudest moment was receiving the Ronnie Clayton trophy from Ronnie along with a signed copy of his autobiography. Truly an awesome man the likes of you just don’t meet every day, when in his company you felt the warmth and sincerity, I will miss him.

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rudeboy84 says...
5:44pm Fri 29 Oct 10

Let's celebrate his life and aplaud him for what he did for the club 600 appearences?!? Who else acheives that nowadays ?!?! True hero and an absolute legend! Hope his family are cared for by the club as he wouldn't have been getting £250,000 a week.

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The ball is round so pass it! says...
5:45pm Fri 29 Oct 10

He used to pop into the health club in the Darwen End. Always down to earth wanting to have a chat and still BRFC mad.
.
Good humour as well - he once told me Kevin Davies would struggle to trap his fingers in a door never mind a ball!
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In my Dad's era he was in the top 2 greats with Douglas - Rovers and England captain. RIP Ronnie.

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The ball is round so pass it! says...
5:47pm Fri 29 Oct 10

onlyonesimongarner wrote:
As and after thought. What about the new owners dedicating a stand to Ronnie ( and maybe also Dougie), and forgoing a few quid of the sponsorship money they are after, that would certainley endeer them to the faithfull.

How does about the Darwen End as the Clayton and Douglas Stand
Great shout 1SG.

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bburnrover says...
5:50pm Fri 29 Oct 10

What a great guy he always had time to smile and say hello as he walked past my home in Wilpshire.I cannot see one of todays mega stars conducting his life like Ronnie did.I and all the other people in Blackburn and district will be saddened by this news.

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Noiticer says...
5:50pm Fri 29 Oct 10

A perfect role model of how all football players should conduct themselves on and off the field and, in his day, a great player and a loyal servant of the club throughout his career and afterwards plus being England Captain of course.

A sad loss.

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Raf_of_the_Rovers says...
6:02pm Fri 29 Oct 10

Absolute legend....one of my first experiences of Ewood was when Ronnie was the tour guide...was full of great humour and stories....
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Will sorely be missed but not forgotten - a true Blackburn Rovers Legend......the Ronnie Clayton stand sounds good to me!!

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RTressell says...
6:02pm Fri 29 Oct 10

It is significant that so many here and in the area have a personal memory / experience of Ronnie.
*
Me too. A wonderful, wonderful man.
*
I feel poorer for his death.

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ford10 says...
6:11pm Fri 29 Oct 10

MET RONNIE ON A FREEBIE AT EWOOD WITH BRYAN DOUGLAS AND THEIR WIVES THEY INVITED ME AND MY GIRLFRIEND OVER TO THEIR TABLE TO DEMOLISH SARNIES AND HAVE A CHAT ALSO WENT TO HIS TESTIMONIAL IN THE LATE 60'S WAS A LOVELY GUY AND ROVERS THRU AND THRU IN A DAY WHEN LOYALTY MEANS NOTHING IN FOOTBALL REST IN PEACE RONNIE A TRUE BLUE LEGEND COME ON YOU BLUES A WIN FOR THE ROVERS TOMORROW FOR RONNIE R.I.P.

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SusieF says...
6:11pm Fri 29 Oct 10

A true gent and lovely man, used to see him in the Bonny Inn with his family.
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Lets give him the loudest minutes clapping tomorrow and lets get the 3 points for him.
.
RIP Ronnie

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JonnyLLLLLLLAD says...
6:17pm Fri 29 Oct 10

Can't believe it, I saw and spoke to him THIS MORNING at the Doctors! Gutted, a true footballing LEGEND, for club AND country......
I read about him and was looking at photos from his heyday and his wife clocked me and nudged him....
Condolences to his family and anyone who met him, an inspiration and Legend of Blackburn....
Gutted

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rovergeoff says...
6:29pm Fri 29 Oct 10

one of the rovers true legends a really great guy always made time to speak to people will b sadly missed around ewood park . condolences to his family

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Miller11 says...
6:31pm Fri 29 Oct 10

onlyonesimongarner wrote:
As and after thought. What about the new owners dedicating a stand to Ronnie ( and maybe also Dougie), and forgoing a few quid of the sponsorship money they are after, that would certainley endeer them to the faithfull.

How does about the Darwen End as the Clayton and Douglas Stand
Fantastic idea, would be very fitting.

Before my time, but my father and Grandfather in particular used to tell me how they had loved watching him. Not long before he passed away my Grandad went on a ground tour with Ronnie, and he loved it.

More than a player, a life-long club ambassador.

Very sad news, and condolences to all his family.

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jogalot says...
6:36pm Fri 29 Oct 10

Very sad news. Ronnie was a big part of what makes Blackburn Rovers such a great club. Great, honest to goodness footballer who kept it simple, hardly ever made a mistake and gave 100% in every game I ever watched. They don't make 'em like that any more.
Rest In Peace.

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bed and breakfast man_! says...
6:44pm Fri 29 Oct 10

Before my time , But his record speeks for its self and will always be there in black and white......But in this case Blue and white.
RIP Ronnie....I am sure you will be in all our thoughts at the game tomorrow...

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Woody Riversider says...
6:58pm Fri 29 Oct 10

Miller11 wrote:
onlyonesimongarner wrote:
As and after thought. What about the new owners dedicating a stand to Ronnie ( and maybe also Dougie), and forgoing a few quid of the sponsorship money they are after, that would certainley endeer them to the faithfull.

How does about the Darwen End as the Clayton and Douglas Stand
Fantastic idea, would be very fitting.

Before my time, but my father and Grandfather in particular used to tell me how they had loved watching him. Not long before he passed away my Grandad went on a ground tour with Ronnie, and he loved it.

More than a player, a life-long club ambassador.

Very sad news, and condolences to all his family.
Excellent idea & also a great way to keep the tradition of BRFC alive.

I never had chance to see Ronnie Clayton in his pomp but, the first game I ever attended(not by design, I may add) was Ronnie Claytons Testimonial at Ewood V Englandx11. Sat on the wall right down the Riverside by the Blackburn End.

But, again a irony considering the possible takeover !!

RIP in peace Ronnie Clayton & condolences to his family. A true Blackburn legend & I thank him for that :)

Arte et labore

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Rover the edge says...
7:01pm Fri 29 Oct 10

I never met him but I have heard of him plenty of times and what a shame and such a loss. When people only have good things to say about someone even before they pass away it tells you what kind of person they are.
Rest in peace

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kenbro says...
7:03pm Fri 29 Oct 10

Saw Ronnie and his brother when they were in our youth teams. He was the Lampard of his day. Strong but fair in the tackle, good attacking moves and passing. Like Douggie, he would be worth a fortune these days. He took us around Ewood on a tour several years ago. We were chatting about the high wages paid these days. He told us that when he captained England, they paid him eleven pounds for the game, and he had to find his own way there.
A great loss. Another giant of the football era that we knew, and sadly will never see again, has gone.

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nontetleydrinker says...
7:03pm Fri 29 Oct 10

Never seen ronnie clayton play but by all accounts a top gentleman.R.I.P.

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The ball is round so pass it! says...
7:17pm Fri 29 Oct 10

Perhaps (I hope) this is a message that the takeover is good for the club and in safe hands for the future. As Woody says too ironic this week to just be coincidence.
.
Douggie must be shattered as they still sat together every game all these years on. Just heard Ronnie on the radio talking about how proud he was to be Rovers captain and how when he became England captain it was like everything you could set out to achieve. What price today's players feeling like that rather than worrying about their bank accounts?
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It would be wrong for one of the stands not to be named the Clayton and Douglas stand as 1SG rightly said. The Simon Garner and Alan Shearer of their day and a bit more plus.

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amazed says...
7:24pm Fri 29 Oct 10

I was shocked when I read that Ronnie Clayton has passed away. Always the gentleman. I knew him when he had the shop in Blackburn Road, Darwen and as a wonderful player at Blackburn. I saw him in his early days - was he playing for Rovers when he was 17 years of age? Aways immaculate in appearance. Happy memories of a great player and a gentleman. My condolences to Val and his family. R.I.P. Ronnie, thanks for the memories and God Bless.

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almondk says...
7:37pm Fri 29 Oct 10

The ultimate role model for any footballer,wonderful player and captain-a true Rovers legend and the nicest person-genuine and sincere.You will be sadly missed by all the faithful Ronnie.
Condolences to Ronnie's family at this sad time.

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kevin e says...
7:43pm Fri 29 Oct 10

Ronnie was a modest and humble man who would have been embarrassed at the 'star' tag which lesser lights come by so easily today.

.

I am sure that the Club will find a suitable, permanent memorial to one of their own.

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Rover_gem says...
7:55pm Fri 29 Oct 10

What sad news. I've met Ronnie a few times and he was always so passionate about the club. He was so modest and friendly, always making time to talk to the fans. Think there'll be a few tears shed tomorrow. RIP Ronnie xxx

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hampden_rover says...
8:14pm Fri 29 Oct 10

Shed a tear when I read the news,absoloutley gutted.At 25 I never had the pleasure to see him play but heard many a tale and could take one of his ground tours every day and never get bored.
An absoloute Rovers and footballing legend.Just think of all the comotion modern day players cause now because they think they dont get paid enough?
RIP Ronnie and condolences to the family x

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stevethrawn says...
8:23pm Fri 29 Oct 10

Thanks Ronnie for many happy memories seeing you play in that majestic manner.Looking after the midfield and then putting a through ball to Duggie.God bless

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rover-till-dudp says...
8:23pm Fri 29 Oct 10

Had the privilege of meeting Ronnie Clayton at a private function many years ago. He made me feel like I had known him for years, so relaxed, and personable. I couldn’t resists asking him who the special person was that he was waving too in the West Ham stands as he left the field after a tremendous 8-2 away victory (1993-94) on a chilly early morning boxing day fixture. He put his arm around my shoulder and led me to a charming lady sat some distance away. This is the person I was waving too, meet my wife Val. Thanks for the memorise Ron.

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brfcforeverandever says...
8:25pm Fri 29 Oct 10

Ewood Park or whatever it may end up being called will be a lesser place without him around.

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Nostradamous says...
8:27pm Fri 29 Oct 10

I saw him play many times,he even came to our school (Blakey Moor Boys)to do some coaching and this whilst he was captain of the Rovers and England,that would not happen now for sure, a very humble man easy to converse with what a roll model he was for todays players,Thanks Ronnie for all those great memories a life that truly needs celebrating,,RIP Pal

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onlyonesimongarner says...
8:31pm Fri 29 Oct 10

Right guys and gals, I am looking for your help here. I wnat everyone to add a comment to this message to effect that you are in favout of renaming the either the Blackburn End or the Darwen End as the Clayton and Douglas Stand.
I am writing to the club with this suggestion , and would welcome your support.

RIP Ronnie Clayton a true blue and a true gent

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ewoodsaythat says...
8:31pm Fri 29 Oct 10

Came across as a really nice bloke.Let us do him proud tomorrow with a performance he would have been proud of! Save the takeover talk for another day.Tomorrow ,the day belongs to Ronnie Clayton. R.I.P.

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BJS says...
8:32pm Fri 29 Oct 10

Great player and Rovers through and through. Head and shoulders above anything we have today. Very sad news!

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billyburges says...
8:32pm Fri 29 Oct 10

R.IP Ronnie,
Thank you so much for the Memories of how the game Should be played.

And My Deepest Sympathy to All of The Family..

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blueandwhitedynamite says...
8:37pm Fri 29 Oct 10

Legend. Rest in Peace Ronnie.

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peeweepolo says...
8:38pm Fri 29 Oct 10

God Bless you Ronnie a truly wonderful man R.I.P....
thinking of you all at this very sad time...Val...Russ..C
heryl..Howard...and families..
All our Love always Margaret,Brian,Petri
na,Simon (Leigh)
and family...God Bless you all ****

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phoebesgrandad says...
8:52pm Fri 29 Oct 10

A true Gentleman,my thoughts are with his family and friends and can think of no better tribute than to name a stand after him and Duggie.

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emertonbrokemyhand says...
8:53pm Fri 29 Oct 10

I think rovers should open a bok of condolence for the Clayton family
and I fully support 1simonG`s suggestion of naming a Stand after Ronnie and Douggie,
As it seems that we are about to plunged into foriegn ownership. We need to hang on to as much of our proud history as possible

RIP Ronnie C (PEC) Past England Captainm

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Celtic Rover says...
8:53pm Fri 29 Oct 10

Even more reason to rebuild the riverside stand and name it after the great England Captain and Rovers legend. Forever in our memories and deepest sympathy to his family.R.I.P. Ronnie.

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emertonbrokemyhand says...
8:58pm Fri 29 Oct 10

Woody Riversider wrote:
Miller11 wrote:
onlyonesimongarner wrote:
As and after thought. What about the new owners dedicating a stand to Ronnie ( and maybe also Dougie), and forgoing a few quid of the sponsorship money they are after, that would certainley endeer them to the faithfull.

How does about the Darwen End as the Clayton and Douglas Stand
Fantastic idea, would be very fitting.

Before my time, but my father and Grandfather in particular used to tell me how they had loved watching him. Not long before he passed away my Grandad went on a ground tour with Ronnie, and he loved it.

More than a player, a life-long club ambassador.

Very sad news, and condolences to all his family.
Excellent idea & also a great way to keep the tradition of BRFC alive.

I never had chance to see Ronnie Clayton in his pomp but, the first game I ever attended(not by design, I may add) was Ronnie Claytons Testimonial at Ewood V Englandx11. Sat on the wall right down the Riverside by the Blackburn End.

But, again a irony considering the possible takeover !!

RIP in peace Ronnie Clayton & condolences to his family. A true Blackburn legend & I thank him for that :)

Arte et labore
Hey Woody, my own fisrt experience of rovers was sitting on the riverside wall for dougies testomanial when I was 5 . Cant even remember who we played but I was hooked for life.

God do I wish we had pro`s like those two today .

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Ian England says...
9:06pm Fri 29 Oct 10

I think Rovers should consider putting up a statue of Ronnie and putting it next to, or close to Jack's. Ronnie was a legend and deserves to be permanently remembered. RIP

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tugay 4 ever says...
9:14pm Fri 29 Oct 10

I met Ronnie a number of years ago when he was invited to present prizes at a school event.His message to the young people was one of morality ,hard work ,pride and respect of others..........oh how I wish there were more Ronnies.Thank you for what you did for Blackburn and for what you stood for .The town is poorer for your passing.

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jayt says...
9:18pm Fri 29 Oct 10

As a 17 year old at QEGS, in 1962, I was allowed to play golf (at Revidge) rather than attend cricket practice each Thursday PM. Standing, alone, by the first tee, a three-ball, halfway up the first fairway called me up to join them. The caller was Ronnie Clayton, his partners Bryan Douglas and John Bray! Imagine, at that age, joining the England captain, the England right-winger and an England "B" international full back; one of the great experiences of my life. Ronnie, who I next met 40 years later, proved a kind (and most unassuming) golf partner that day and was no less gracious at our second meeting. I suspect I watched at least 250 of his 600+ Rovers appearances and I've no hesitation whatsoever in comparing him favourably, as a midfield dynamo and supreme distributor of the ball, with the likes of Duncan Edwards, Bobby Moore and, if you like, the Gerrards, Lampards etc of the present day. Farewell, Ronnie, it was a privilege to see you grace Ewood and Wembley and the memory of a lifetime to play that round of golf with you.

Jerry, Washington DC.

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peeweepolo says...
9:24pm Fri 29 Oct 10

God Bless you Ronnie a truly wonderful man R.I.P....
thinking of you all at this very sad time...Val...Russ..N
eil..
Cheryl..Howard...and families..
All our Love always Margaret,Brian,
Petrina,Simon (Leigh)
and familes...God Bless you all xx

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ibby128 says...
9:27pm Fri 29 Oct 10

RIP Ronnie. I never got to see you in action but I'm sure you were great. Thank you for your visit to our school some 6 years ago. I'll never forget that prizegiving! Have a nice time in heaven sir. :-)

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gillbee says...
9:37pm Fri 29 Oct 10

Sincere condolences to all the family. A true sportsman and gentleman, it would be a wonderful memorial to him if the Darwen End could be re-named as the Clayton-Douglas stand. As an earlier post said, if Rovers are to have a change of ownership, lets hold on to some of our heritage. R.I.P. Ronnie.

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UBIQUITOUS12 says...
9:59pm Fri 29 Oct 10

I saw Ronnie play many times.One outstanding memory is one home game against Liverpool in 1958. Without knowing it he played most of the game with a broken leg and despite the great pain scored an equalising goal.How many of today's prima donnas would have such courage and dedication? R.I.P.

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Monsters mum says...
10:01pm Fri 29 Oct 10

I totally agree that the naming of a stand, the Clayton and Douglas stand would indeed be a wonderful fitting tribute, and should be a must!!. R.I.P Ronnie

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bluebella says...
10:01pm Fri 29 Oct 10

R.I.P my friend,

Thankyou for what you did for BRFC

God speed.

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batesempire says...
10:14pm Fri 29 Oct 10

Never had the pleasure to see Ronnie play but you just know fron what people say about him how good he was, I did meet Ronnie at the ground a few times and he always talked to you like he knew you. You will be in everyones harts and minds at 15:00 tomorrow. RIP Ronnie Clayton Forever BLUE & WHITE

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Spanishblue says...
10:23pm Fri 29 Oct 10

Never had the chance to see him play but went on a ground tour with him years ago. One of the nicest people I ever met.
Condolences to his family
Cath, Torrevieja, Spain

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kool4katz says...
10:36pm Fri 29 Oct 10

A true gent met him several times when I introduced him my Mum to him he gave her a massive hug,never saw him in his prime but you could see he was special in the tony parkes testamonial when he came on as a sub
and he was in his 60s then

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Woody Riversider says...
10:42pm Fri 29 Oct 10

emertonbrokemyhand wrote:
Woody Riversider wrote:
Miller11 wrote:
onlyonesimongarner wrote:
As and after thought. What about the new owners dedicating a stand to Ronnie ( and maybe also Dougie), and forgoing a few quid of the sponsorship money they are after, that would certainley endeer them to the faithfull.

How does about the Darwen End as the Clayton and Douglas Stand
Fantastic idea, would be very fitting.

Before my time, but my father and Grandfather in particular used to tell me how they had loved watching him. Not long before he passed away my Grandad went on a ground tour with Ronnie, and he loved it.

More than a player, a life-long club ambassador.

Very sad news, and condolences to all his family.
Excellent idea & also a great way to keep the tradition of BRFC alive.

I never had chance to see Ronnie Clayton in his pomp but, the first game I ever attended(not by design, I may add) was Ronnie Claytons Testimonial at Ewood V Englandx11. Sat on the wall right down the Riverside by the Blackburn End.

But, again a irony considering the possible takeover !!

RIP in peace Ronnie Clayton & condolences to his family. A true Blackburn legend & I thank him for that :)

Arte et labore
Hey Woody, my own fisrt experience of rovers was sitting on the riverside wall for dougies testomanial when I was 5 . Cant even remember who we played but I was hooked for life.

God do I wish we had pro`s like those two today .
Hey emertonbrokemyhand :)

Aye, RC was my dads generation & it was he who took me down on that evening & I would of only been 8 maybe & it was my first experience of Ewood.

I think Bobby Charlton was playing etc. It's vague but, that's my memory. & yes your right in that wishing for pro's such as those you mention were around today.

We cannot be wrong in our perceptions of today & I would say the game is 'FUBAR' & people of Claytons era prove just that !!

Arte et labore

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kool4katz says...
10:44pm Fri 29 Oct 10

I also heard a great story about Ronnie from a friend of mine who was in his class at school,he was supposed to sign for PNE but they messed him about a bit, so his dad took him to rovers and the rest was history

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Iii1111 says...
10:49pm Fri 29 Oct 10

Ronnie stopped doing the ground tours 5/6 months ago which he absolutely loved ..just hope today’s BRFC players realise how much loyalty Ronnie showed to the club …nowadays players get paid millions a year and don’t show a fraction of the loyalty Ronnie did for the club.
.
Had a phone call at 16.45 today of the news and we all had a tear in our eyes RIP Ronnie

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hazy says...
10:53pm Fri 29 Oct 10

took my family and friends on the rovers tour with ronnie,and all i can say about this guy was he loved blackburn rovers as much as he did his wife and family,thx ron for your time on the tour,your words about our club meant so much to you,much more than money can buy,R I P RONNIE

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Rishtonian says...
11:19pm Fri 29 Oct 10

Thank you Ronnie for some great football I remember the days when you led the team with the likes of the 3 Ds Dobbing Douglas Dugan along with Roy Vernon and Ally McLeod, Langton, Quigley ect
And I support the motion for Stand to be called after you and Brian Douglas

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ewoodblues says...
11:19pm Fri 29 Oct 10

I first saw ronnie clayton play 1954 when i went with my dad ronnie was a leader of men and played the game the way it should he was a trully great captain and leader of men and was respected by fans worldwide ronnie never had a bad word to say about anybody and would allways be a gentleman as a young boy i collected autographs outside ewood park and he would never refuse anybody as he did right to the sorry to see you have departed ronnie you will be sadly missed i feel privlege to have watched you play for rovers and england god bless and good night you were a unsung hero in my book best captain ive know (birdy ewoodblues)

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ewoodblues says...
11:30pm Fri 29 Oct 10

i agree with the quote to rename one of the stands after ronnie clayton & bryan douglas it would be a fitting tribute

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hoodle says...
11:33pm Fri 29 Oct 10

R.I.P. Ronnie. Condolences to all family and close friends.

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ladysal says...
11:57pm Fri 29 Oct 10

I knew Ronnie only by reputation but he was one of the best.
Jack gave BRFC millions and got a statue and a stand named after him.
Ronnie gave BRFC his everything, both on the pitch and in his retirement. Yes to the stand and the statue.
RIP to a true footballer and a gentleman.

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ricksh says...
1:25am Sat 30 Oct 10

R.I.P RONNIE you ARE a legend and a good friend

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eddie the eagle says...
1:33am Sat 30 Oct 10

blueandwhitedynamite wrote:
Legend. Rest in Peace Ronnie.
The term legend was made for Ronnie Clayton,I saw him play he was a wonderful player.He was from an age when players mixed with fans and I saw him on many occasions at dinners and presentations.I think the Clayton Douglas stand is a great idea and lets not wait,let Dougie cut the ribbon.

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smellthecoffee says...
2:19am Sat 30 Oct 10

RIP Ronnie. Nice tribute from Burnley website: http://www.clarets-m
ad.co.uk/news/tmnw/f
ormer_england_captai
n_clayton_dies_57379
8/index.shtml. Fair play.

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ROVERS1875 says...
2:24am Sat 30 Oct 10

RIP Sir Ronnie Clayton. All I can do is echo the sentiments above and to also say I never had the opportunity to see you play (being 29) but I was brought up knowing you are a Rovers Legend and a true gentleman of the game and one of the best ever. I have also been well aware of your presence at the club as an ambassador over the years and you will be truly missed by the Rovers. A sad day for Blackburn Rovers. RIP Sir Ronnie Clayton TRUE LEGEND

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Mon says...
2:33am Sat 30 Oct 10

My dad took me to Ewood in the sixties, took me down to the wall on the riverside, plonked me on my stool with my rattle to watch Clayton and Douglas. Non of them ever had a bad game. They were a pleasure to watch. R.I.P Ronnie. A great footballer and a true gent.

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oneofthe6000 says...
3:18am Sat 30 Oct 10

Pure class both on and off the pitch.
From a football era which sadly is lost for ever.
RIP

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Global Rover says...
3:55am Sat 30 Oct 10

My 15th birthday was the week before the Cup Final and my Mum bought me a pair of swimming trunks from Val in their newsagent/sports shop in Darwen. (They were Old Gold and Black!!)
During my party my Dad said ‘Somebody’s on the ‘phone for you.’ I had a chat for a couple of minutes along the lines of ‘ Enjoying the party? Do the trunks fit? Pity about the colour. Going to Wembly? Give us a shout then. I’ll let you get back to your party.’ I asked my Dad ‘Who was that?’ ‘Ronnie Clayton.’ I went upstairs for a lie down.
How about that for after-sales service from the England Captain?
Ever grateful for the memories and pride he gave us.

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Donmac46 says...
5:07am Sat 30 Oct 10

From far away Australia it saddens me to hear of the passing of one of my all time favourite footballers, the magnificent Ronnie Clayton. As a lifetime follower of Blackburn Rovers, he was a man, who personified the fighting spirit of our town. His winning goal against Liverpool, in the FA Cup in 1958, is still etched in my mind, when as an injured passenger, playing up front at centre forward, he bravely dived headfirst, in a crowded penalty area, to head in the winning goal. A beautiful person, who thought of himself, as just an ordinary bloke, doing his job. How proud I used to be, when I sometimes caught the same bus as him, to travel from the Boulevard to Ewood Park, and be able to tell all my mates at school, on the monday morning, I went to the game with Ronnie Clayton. There will be many players from now on who will play proudly in Blackburn Rovers colours, but none of them will be better, or more loyal to the club, than the late great Ronnie Clayton. R.I.P Ronnie, it was an honour to have met you, and to have seen you play.

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planahath says...
6:03am Sat 30 Oct 10

R.I.P. Ronnie. Does anyone know if Barrie Ratcliffe, who also played for Rovers around 1961 and 1962 is still alive? I was on a training course with him back in 1994 and I recall that he had fond memories of Ronnie Clayton and Bryan Douglas.

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jonno1 says...
6:16am Sat 30 Oct 10

never met him but my dad met him & said he was a really nice bloke,ronnie epitomised blackburn rovers if that is the right word a loyal servant who will be sadly missed,r.i.p ronnie

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Brisbane Rover says...
6:28am Sat 30 Oct 10

Sad day for Rovers all round the world.
God bless you Ronnie, thanks for everything.

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spyderleg says...
7:03am Sat 30 Oct 10

A true gentleman of the game, a man that should be a role model to all young players. RIP Ronnie a proper legend!

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The ball is round so pass it! says...
7:07am Sat 30 Oct 10

onlyonesimongarner wrote:
Right guys and gals, I am looking for your help here. I wnat everyone to add a comment to this message to effect that you are in favout of renaming the either the Blackburn End or the Darwen End as the Clayton and Douglas Stand.
I am writing to the club with this suggestion , and would welcome your support.

RIP Ronnie Clayton a true blue and a true gent
For John Williams its email -
.
Ltalbot@rover-mail.c
o.uk
.
Think you have everyones support on this one 1SG.

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Wild Rover says...
7:59am Sat 30 Oct 10

My earliest memory of Rovers was the1960 Cup Final & the excitment in our Rovers mad household leading up to it . Many happy memories followed but Ronnie was always a big part of them. I have met him over the years since then and yes he was a gentlemsn of the highest order RIP Ronnie

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WarringtonRover says...
8:02am Sat 30 Oct 10

The word 'LEGEND' was made for people like RONNIE CLAYTON.
His career was before my time.
But his name will live on for generations of Rovers fans for years to come.
R.I.P.... Respect Is Paramount.
KEEP THE BLUE FLAG FLYING

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Joe-El says...
8:02am Sat 30 Oct 10

Ronnie Clayton was one of my footballing heroes when I was a kid. He was one of the great midfield players of his time and when he moved back as a central defender, he was one of the best in that position too.
I feel that Rovers should honour his memory, and that of Bryan Douglas too by erecting a bronze bust, or something like that, of the two greatest post war players in the club's history.
Come on Rovers get on with before its too late.
By the way, it should be the Clayton & Douglas Blackburn End Stand that has a better ring to it.

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chrisstuttard says...
8:17am Sat 30 Oct 10

A true Ewood legend. Will never be forgotten

R.I.P Ronnie Clayton

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baz58 says...
9:07am Sat 30 Oct 10

onlyonesimongarner wrote:
Right guys and gals, I am looking for your help here. I wnat everyone to add a comment to this message to effect that you are in favout of renaming the either the Blackburn End or the Darwen End as the Clayton and Douglas Stand. I am writing to the club with this suggestion , and would welcome your support. RIP Ronnie Clayton a true blue and a true gent
I am with you on this, or even the riverside.
R.I.P. Ronnie and thankyou for all you have done for Blackburn Rovers.

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maureen bateson says...
9:58am Sat 30 Oct 10

I was so sad to hear the news about Ronnie yesterday. I am lucky to have met him on a number of occasions along with his lovely wife Val. He was a perfect gentlman, always had time for people, he loved the club and its supporters. We have lost a true legend. My heartfelt sympathy to Val and his family Its been an honour to know you Ronnie R.I.P

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brfcianbrfc says...
10:05am Sat 30 Oct 10

Blackburn will stand in silence for you today . R.I.P.

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Kaspervic says...
11:27am Sat 30 Oct 10

Better yet we'll win the match for you!

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glp says...
12:11pm Sat 30 Oct 10

RIP Ronnie. A true Rovers Legend. His ground tours of Ewood were so enjoyable and his stories a delight

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BRFCUK1 says...
12:35pm Sat 30 Oct 10

A sad day for Rovers fans around the world. Ronnie was a true gentleman and nobody has given more to the club than he has throughout his great life. Ronnie deserves to be honoured with a Statue next to Jack Walkers were everyone can pay their respects. I think a one min hand clapping is more fitting than silence, to say thanks for everything you have done for the club and supporters, RIP Ronnie Clayton a true legend.

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Arthur Thompson says...
1:16pm Sat 30 Oct 10

One of the legends at Ewood. He is up there with Crompton, Douglas, Eckersley, O'Shea, Shearer etc. 35 caps and captain of England says it all as does his one club man status.
Condolences to his family. Gone but never forgotten.

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dottie45 says...
1:43pm Sat 30 Oct 10

R.I.P. Ronnie, a perfect gentleman and role model. Deepest sympathy to family and Brian Douglas.

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French Rover says...
3:16pm Sat 30 Oct 10

Giant of a man in every sense of the word. A real gentleman and world class footballer.
*
I first saw him play in the late 50's at Ewood and when I was 11 I tried to get a job as a paperboy at his newsagent shop! Didn't get it, ended up being paperboy for the Lynwood paper shop instead! Not half as glamorous but paid better!
*
Last met him at Wembley at the Play-Off final. Still a legend then and will always be a legend to family, friends and fans alike...

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Boris The Spider says...
4:07pm Sat 30 Oct 10

Too young to have seen him play, but Ronnie & Val are friends of my parents, so knew him through them. An absolutely top man. Always friendly, alwys had something positive to say. God rest.

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Arthur Thompson says...
4:32pm Sat 30 Oct 10

The amazing thing about Ronnie is that a lot of those England caps were awarded when he was playing for Rovers in the second division as well as being against the likes of Brazil, Germany and the Soviet Union.
That would never happen today and proves what a great player he was to gain England caps while playing in that league at a time when it was a major achievement to play for England 2-3 times.

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jimtbg says...
6:28pm Sat 30 Oct 10

Very sad to hear about Ronnie.
True gentleman always made himself available for functions presentations for amateur football.
Always had a big smile.
Last time I saw him was at a sportsman’s dinner where he did his twirl and wave.
Deepest condolence to Val and family.
Jim Carol

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dallarover says...
9:53pm Sat 30 Oct 10

I currently live in Dallas and in Cowboys stadium there is a ring of honour around the stands with the names of their best players with their squad numbers or other outstanding contributors. When I first went to see them knowing little about the club or game the first thing I did was ask folks about the names and find out who they were and what they did. Wouldn't it be a great thing for Rovers to introduce as a permanent and visible memorial to key players and contributors so that it 20 years time kids going to Ewood for the first time will be asking "Who was number 4 Ronnie Clayton?" and their Dad's will respond with some of the great comments on this article. Wouldn't this also be a great way to mark the past while the club transitions into new ownership?

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stealer says...
1:11am Sun 31 Oct 10

I saw Rovers play, often, in the Forties and onwards !
Ronnie was about my age as is Duggie.
Campbell,Kelly,Clayt
on : 1952 Clayton,Wright,Edwar
ds : c1957
Clayton,Woods,McGrat
h : 1960

In 59/ 60 used to see Ronnie and Valerie at King Georges with Mick and
girlfriend(?) sat to left of bandstand under the balcony. My girlfriend, presently wife, was a Darwener and maybe they knew her, judging by their mannerisms I observed as we danced by them! Although she did have a shapley figure and loveley legs! Wonder what happend to her ?
Early 80s I would occasionally see Ronnie practising golf down Pleasy and we would exchange hello and the odd comment.
The last time I saw him was at a'Youth'
Cup semi at Ewood,he was still the same as ever,smartly dressed, courteous and unassuming !
I learned of his death on MotD and it was a shock,I wonder if other clubs will
acknowledge his departure,after all he was Captain of England !
Incidentally Jack Walker stood on the terraces throughout Ronnie's career and who kwows,perhaps Ronnie,Duggie
et al were the inspiration for Jack's investments !
RIP to an upstanding character and an outstanding ambassador !

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Liverock says...
1:17am Sun 31 Oct 10

I was at school with Ronnie Clayton at Fishwick School Preston. We all knew he and his brother Ken were great footballers, but when Ronnie was picked to play for Lancashire Shoolboys at Cricket we a all felt he would make a career in professional cricket playing for Lancashire. However football was his first choice and it turned out to be the right one.

When he left school and signed for Rovers we couldnt believe it! How could North End let him slip through their fingers. It was the biggest mistake they ever made.

Thanks for the memories Ronnie and RIP.

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Aussiejon says...
1:41am Sun 31 Oct 10

A truly great man of Blackburn.In my short stay at the Rovers Ron made me feel welcome and his assistance and advice proved invaluable.Nothing was to much trouble.Long may his spirit and love for this club live on.
John Roberts Australia

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Roverthere says...
5:09am Sun 31 Oct 10

A great Rover and true gentleman. RIP Ronnie.

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conker says...
10:42am Sun 31 Oct 10

So sad to hear of the death of Ronnie i meet him on a few ocassions this man is all about what a human being is a great player for rovers and england a warm hearted man he had time for everyone i was lucky to have spoken to him at lenth about rovers and aslo had my photo taken with him i will miss him i could go on for hours about this great man i would like to offer my sincere condolences to his family RIP RONNIE SIR god only takes the best

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Freddie Riverside says...
12:33pm Sun 31 Oct 10

As a Blackburn Rovers supporter of almost 60 years I was deeply saddened to hear of the death of Ronnie Clayton. The word "great", in football parlance, is over-used, but in the case of Ronnie Clayton it can be used in the true meaning of the word. Judged in any era, Ronnie Clayton was just that - "great". He was a wonderful footballer, strong but fair in the tackle, excellent passer of the ball, strong in the air and was a human dynamo both in defence and attack. He also possessed a very long throw-in (there is nothing new in the game)

When I first started watching Rovers in 1952, Ronnie was already an established member of the Team and it was obvious that his ability belied his tender years and that International honours would be achieved sooner rather than later. I'm sure he would have learned a great deal from the class acts he played with at that time such as Bill Eckersley, Tommy Briggs, Eddie Quigley and Bobby Langton.

As his career progressed Rovers produced some fine players but the constants were Ronnie and the brilliant Bryan Douglas.

I feel privilaged to have watched Ronnie and Duggie and feel sorry for those who have not had that opportunity.

I do not believe that as supporters we will see the likes of a Ronnie Clayton again - he was that good !! At a Football Club there can be very few "Legends", Ronnie Clayton was and is one - he is the benchmark.

I feel honoured to pay tribute to Ronnie - a true Rovers Legend.

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loyalsupporter57 says...
5:29pm Sun 31 Oct 10

Being of an age to have watched Ronnie & Dougie play and meet Ronnie on a few occasions and just having registered so I can add my feelings. I would expect the club to certainly ensure any buyer would agree to the re-naming of the Blackburn or Darwin End and it certainly would be a fitting tribute to a loyal player and gentleman. I would hope that they would see fit to name either stand Clayton Douglas Stand and show our appreciation to Ronnie and Dougie (lets not miss showing Dougie while he is alive) that his and Ronnie's contribution to making BRFC what it is today is not forgotton PLEASE.

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arthur2shedsjackson says...
6:20pm Sun 31 Oct 10

Sad to hear that Ronnie Clayton has passed away.
Years ago when I was a youngster and a Manchester United fan(I have since seen the error of my ways) I queued up with a gang of other youngsters at the players entrance at Old Trafford. The reason? Ronnie Clayton had just been made England's captain and here he was with the Rovers team to play United. We all pushed and shoved to get Ronnie's signature until he shouted at us, in a friendly way that is! To form a line and he would sign every autograph book and picture, which he did! He made a gang of kids very happy that day.
I replayed this story to Ronnie a few years ago on a visit to the club and he said, with a big smile "what a lovely story, thank you for that"
You will be greatly missed Ronnie.

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mammamiauk says...
10:40pm Sun 31 Oct 10

I was saddened to hear about Ronnie's passing although I have only met him once. My husband and I had a one-to-one audience with Ronnie in December 2006 as we were the only ones on the ground tour and it was a certainly memorable morning. Ronnie truly amused us with his anecdotes and tales of his footballing days, etc. May Ronnie's memory long lives on at Rovers!

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Donmac46 says...
10:48pm Sun 31 Oct 10

I have just read all of these beautiful tributes, to the late great Ronnie Clayton, and sincerely agree with all of them. Thank you for taking the time to make your feelings known, to the rest of the world, because we have truly lost one of the "Giants" of this great game, an example to all who play it, in the spirit it was meant to be played. The present day English players, could learn a lot, from the standard of behaviour Ronnie Clayton set for himself, and his teamates, and the loyalty and leadership, he showed to Blackburn Rovers and England. Until we meet again rest in peace Ronnie.

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stigga says...
12:34am Mon 1 Nov 10

The pitch is now yours, and yours alone.
.
Too young to see you play, but heard lots about you as both a player and, more importantly, a man.
.

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chrisevans93 says...
6:34pm Mon 1 Nov 10

One man club one true legend get the blackburn stand named after him brilliant tribute on saturday with "there is only one ronnie clayton" nice to see dave whelan at the game now lets win on saturday for him R.I.P Ronnie ur my icon

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JohnLund says...
11:36pm Mon 1 Nov 10

Ronnie would listen to all whom had a problem, and was a great ambassador for Blackburn Rovers. I have fond memories of meeting Ronnie and Val at functions. Heartfelt condolences, John Lund Bolton-le Sands (Clitheroe-Rivesalte
s French connection)

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