A FORMER football coach is appealing for the men and boys he worked with and coached at Walshaw Sports Club to get together for a long over due reunion.

The reunion has been organised by David Harrity, aged 68, from Brandlesholme, who coached teams in the borough during the 1960s and 70s, and is set to take place on a date to be confirmed next month.

Recently going through a lengthy period in hospital, Mr Harrity was cared for by a doctor who was the nephew of former England and Manchester United midfielder Nobby Stiles.

The pair began regularly talking about the sport with Mr Harrity reminiscing about his time coaching teams including squads at St Peter's School in Bury.

Among Mr Harrity's fondest memories were his two years at Walshaw Sport's Club where, over two seasons and with four trophy wins, he recalled the team transformed from a "group of young lads who only wanted to play football for fun into a trophy winning team and who played with a smile on their faces".

As the memories came flooding back he also remembered remarkable wins, challenging games and great memories made with colleagues Paul Hayman, John Heaton, Hugh Tinney and Derek Kay, who has since passed away.

Following his release from hospital Mr Harrity contacted Walshaw Sports Club and got permission for a reunion to get the lads back together.

Mr Harrity said: "Having been quite ill recently I want to see these lads again. They came from nothing and won trophies."

For more details or to attend the reunion contact Mr Harrity on 01617642540.