TRIBUTES have been paid to an ex-Chorley FC captain who lost his battle with lung cancer.

Former semi-professional footballer Philip Marsden battled an aggressive form of lung cancer for nearly four months before he died, aged 60, on September 7.

Mr Marsden, from Tonge Moor, worked as a painter and decorator but made a name for himself in non-league football, most famously leading Chorley in their FA Cup run in 1986-87 when they beat Wolves 3-0 on their way to the third round.

He leaves behind wife Angela Marsden, sons Kyle and Scott, and daughter Danielle.

Despite being diagnosed with an aggressive small cell form of lung cancer, which had already spread to his liver, in May, Mr Marsden would not let the illness keep him down.

His determination saw him visit a customer the same day as undergoing chemotherapy treatment — as well as taking calls from clients in his last weeks of life.

A Chorley FC spokesman, said: “Phil will be fondly remembered by everyone at Victory Park.

“He was a true character and was the captain of Chorley FC during our historic FA Cup run of 1986 when we defeated Wolverhampton Wanderers and only lost to Preston North End in a replay at Deepdale, the five games were watch by close to 50,000 spectators.

“Everyone at Chorley FC sends their condolences to Phil’s family and many many friends.”

His wife Angela, said: “Everybody says that when he went into a room he lit it up — he was always smiling.

“At the end he went into hospital and he could not move his legs any more. We knew what was going to happen.

“He just said to me ‘Don’t worry I will fight this, I think I will lose this one but remember I will always love you and always have’.”

The couple met in 1983 at Tonge Moor Labour Club and shared an interest in rock and roll music.

They married five years ago.

Mr Marsden, who also played for Stafford Rangers and Macclesfield Town and won England semi-pro caps, loved golf, and was a member of Deane Golf Club.

Son Kyle said: “He meant the world to us all. He was a really funny man and was always having a laugh.

“He was never negative about anything, even when he was really ill.”

After falling ill, Mr Marsden received countless good-luck messages, including one special video from Wanderers legend John McGinlay and former Whites boss Owen Coyle.

Before his death, his daughter Danielle completed a sky-dive, raising £5,250 for Bolton Hospice, where her father was treated.