Ramsbottom United have announced the sad death of Geoff Lay today.

Geoff played a significant role over the years at the club and has been with the Rams for the best part of 50 years.

He started playing for the team in the early years and was a competitive and commanding centre-half, standing over six feet tall.

When his playing days came to an end, he became a vital member of the club’s committee where he helped the Rams to move up from the local Bolton Combination League to where they are today, in the Pitching In Northern Premier League.

Much of what you see at the Harry Williams Riverside Stadium is down to Geoff’s hard work as he oversaw the planning and construction of much of the ground.

Geoff suffered illness in his later years, but he returned to the Rams stadium a couple of years ago as they honoured his achievements by renaming a stand in his honour.

The club said he will be sadly missed by all and their sympathies go out to his family.