ACCRINGTON Stanley FC have paid tribute to former director Geoff Heap, who was described as ‘a friendly and familiar face’ to all at the club.

Mr Heap, 84, who died on Sunday, had been involved with Stanley for around 60 years, going back to the 1950s and 60s, which included the era the club folded and left the football league.

A club statement, said: "Everyone at Accrington Stanley is saddened to learn of the death of former director Geoff Heap.

"He passed away in hospital.

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"Geoff had been a member of the unique Stanley family for most of his adult life, from being involved with the old club with his father in the 1960s to being a familiar face at home and away games in the modern era.

"A generation of staff and supporters have grown up with Geoff manning his 'late gate' at the Wham Stadium, a role he only recently relinquished having reached his 80s.

"He’s also been familiar to squad after squad of players, travelling regularly on the team bus to games up and down the country.

"Geoff will be sorely missed by everyone involved with the club and our thoughts are with his family and friends at this difficult time."

Former Stanley player Luke Joyce, who spent six years at the club, said Geoff was a 'massive' figure around he club.

He said: "Geoff was a lovely gentleman and a true Stanley man.

"Every one of the players and staff felt genuine affection for him.

"He was a quiet man but was always around the place doing odd jobs such as maintaining seats in the and fixing things the changing rooms and always had a friendly word for the players.

"I know he was involved with Stanley for more than 50 years, very few clubs in the football league have people around for so long.

"He would be at all the home games and would often travel on the team coach to away matches.

"I will remember him sat at the front of the bus wearing his club tie, cracking the odd joke with us."

The management at the Crown Inn, next to the stadium also paid tribute, saying 'everyone at The Crown would like to pass on their sincere condolences to the family of Geoff Heap.

"He was a great friend to all of us and he will be truly missed."