Former Shakers star Lenny Johnrose has died aged 52.

The midfielder, who played 194 games for Bury FC and scored 20 goals for the club in two spells from 1993 to 2003, was diagnosed with motor neurone disease (MND) in 2017.

Since his diagnosis, Lenny worked with the MND Association to fundraise and bring more awareness of the condition.

Bury FC Supporters' Society also paid tribute to Lenny, calling him a 'legend' and a 'fighter.'

A society spokesperson said on Twitter: "We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Bury FC legend Lenny Johnrose.

"The board would like to offer our sincerest condolences to his family and friends at this very sad time.

"A fighter both on and off the pitch who gave everything. #RIPLENNY"

In July, a host of Bury FC legends played a match against Burnley to raise money both for the Len Johnrose Trust and for restoration efforts at Gigg Lane. 

Len visited clubs including Blackburn Rovers and Accrington Stanley to talk to the players about the disease and potential links with the profession.

Two of his friends set up The Len Johnrose Trust to help him achieve these goals as well as to help support him and his family.

A spokesperson for the organisation tweeted: "We are heartbroken to tell you that our leader, Len Johnrose passed away this morning.

"Len was an incredibly proud husband and father.

"Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this very sad time."

 

Starting his career aged 14 at Blackburn Rovers, Lenny made 42 appearances for the club before moving on.

As well as Bury, he also appeared on the pitch for Burnley FC on more than 80 occasions.

Away from the game, he was a teacher at St Silas CE Primary in Blackburn for a number of years.

Teachers and pupils there were fundraisers for MND research.

Len was happily married to wife Nadine since 2001 and had three children, daughters Chanel and Elizabeth, and son Patrick.