THE demise of Bury FC would be like a ‘death in the family’ to former winger David Lee.

The Whitefield-born wide man began his career at Gigg Lane before going on to star for Wanderers, where he now coaches the Under-18s side.

He says it is down to the Shakers he even had a career in the game and admits it will a sad day if they go out of business.

Lee said: “It is shocking news and so sad.

“It will be like a death in the family because I still know so many people at Bury.

“I wouldn’t have had the career I did if it wasn’t for that club.”

Lee’s professional career began with Bury in 1986 and he went on to make more than 200 league appearances in five years at Gigg Lane.

His form there ultimately earned him a move to Burnden Park, via an unhappy spell at Southampton, and he went on to enjoy a successful time with Wanderers as part of the ‘White Hot’ team that secured the famous hat-trick of cup wins including the Anfield triumph 20 years ago.

They were happy times for the 45-year-old, but he also has fond memories of his years with the Shakers.

“It is a real family-orientated club,” he added. “They gave me a chance and I will forever be grateful for that.

“The problem is that a club of Bury’s size has never really been able to compete with those nearby like Wanderers, Man United and Man City.

“However, they have always got by by producing players and selling them on.

“It seems now that even survival in the Football League is a problem and that is something to mourn.

“I just hope someone can help out, come in and change the infrastructure and direction maybe.

“If not, then it will be a sad day if Bury FC dies.”

Another ex-Shaker, John McGinlay, is confident a deal will be struck to ensure professional football continues in the town.

“They are painting a very dark picture at the moment but there is too much history there to let the whole thing disappear down the drain,” he said. “It is difficult to see people investing in something that doesn’t take off, so it might need someone to take the reins and shake the place up completely.

“I went to the club recently and looked round the crowd. There were a lot of older fans, and there has to be some effort made to bring in a younger generation.

“But it is easier said than done when you look at what is on their doorstep.

“Even FC United seem to be getting more people in, and that is sad to see.”