TRIBUTES have been paid to Clarets' former commercial manager, Joyce Pickles.

Burnley FC, the Lancashire FA and Wigan Warriors have all paid respects to their former colleague, who died on Friday.

Ms Pickles, who was in her 70s, has been described by co-workers as a 'lovely lady' who was passionate about her work.

Burnley FC said in a statement: "Burnley Football Club is deeply saddened to learn of the death of former commercial manager, Joyce Pickles.

"The thoughts of everyone at the club at this time are with family and friends."

The mum-of-two worked for the football club over two decades, from the 1970s to 1990s, and became friends with Frank Casper, who would become her business partner for a sports clothing production company between 1990 to 1996.

Based on Albert Street, Burnley, Superleague Kits made an annual turnover of £1m selling sweaters, jumpers, jackets and children's clothes to football clubs across the country, including Chelsea, Arsenal, West Ham, Blackburn and Burnley.

Paying tribute to his former business partner, Mr Casper said: "Joyce was a kind lady and lovely person. She was a hard worker and wanted to be a success."

In her lifetime, Ms Pickles also served Lancashire FA for 13 years as a marketing and sponsorship consultant and Wigan Warriors for 16 years in the commercial and sales department.

Lancashire FA's head of commercial and operations, David Chell, who worked with Ms Pickles for several years, said: "Joyce showed tremendous attitude and passion for her work across all aspects of the commercial operations since she joined Lancashire FA 13 years ago.

"She had an unquestionable knowledge and impact in gaining sponsors for many of our county cup competitions, using the contacts she had on a national basis. This is one example of exactly what she will be remembered so fondly for.”

Lancashire FA's chief executive Simon Gerrard added: “Joyce had an incredible impact on grassroots football across Lancashire.

"We are all deeply saddened and shocked to hear of her passing, and all of our thoughts go out to Joyce’s children, grandchildren and wider family at this sad time.”

Wigan Warrior's executive director, Kris Radlinski described Ms Pickles as a 'force of nature' and said: “Joyce was an extremely popular member of staff, who was well-revered with the contacts and businesses she worked with throughout a successful career in the sports industry in the North West."