Tributes have been paid to former Bury FC captain Martyn Forrest who has died at the age of 43.

Martyn, a former Shakers player and captain, had been living with a brain tumour after being diagnosed in 2008.

Martyn’s wife Lisa confirmed his death in a Facebook post in which she told fans that  treatment for the former player’s tumour “was no longer working".

She said: “It is with the heaviest of hearts that I write this message to let you know Martyn has passed away.

"He was an amazing husband and a fantastic dad. We will miss you so so much.

“Not many people are aware that when Martyn collapsed on the pitch at Radcliffe Borough back in 2008 he was diagnosed with a brain tumour.

“After undergoing brain surgery three times, radiotherapy and chemotherapy we were given the unfortunate news in March 2022 that the treatment was no longer working.

“After a few months of suffering he is now at his resting place where he can look down on his two boys and see them grow up into amazing men.

“I cannot say how much his fun loving personality is going to be missed by so many people. Rest in peace my wonderful husband.xx.”

Martyn’s former team sent its thoughts to his friends and family and praised his bravery both on and off the pitch.

A Bury FC spokesperson said: “ ONCE A SHAKER ALWAYS A SHAKER.

“We are saddened to hear the news of former captain Martyn Forrest’s passing.

"He showed bravery on and off the pitch and will be remembered fondly.

“We send our thoughts to his friends and family.

Tributes also came from Bury AFC which sent condolences to Martyn's friends and family. 

A Bury AFC spokesperson said: “Our thoughts today are with the family and friends of former Bury FC player and captain, Martyn Forrest who sadly lost his long-standing battle with a brain tumour."

Martyn was diagnosed with a brain tumour after collapsing on the pitch at Radcliffe Borough, where he played between 2004 and 2012.

He played for Bury FC between 1996 and 2003 before moving on to Leigh RMI and Droylsden.