Guiseley AFC was rocked this week by the news of the death of John Cooke. He had been in hospital for some weeks but had been a keen supporter, both home and away, prior to that.

The players and crowd showed their respect for him when they stood in silence prior to Monday's home game against Witton Albion.

The Chairman of Guiseley Football Club, Phil Rogerson, paid the following tribute to John:

" I would like to pay tribute to John Cooke who died after a brief illness last Saturday.

"As a committee member, and latterly as a life member of the club he had served Guiseley AFC for at least the past 40 years and longer than those currently associated with the club can remember.

"Whilst he had been seriously ill since Christmas it still came as a shock to learn of his death just prior to last Saturday's kick-off.

"A minute's silence, as a mark of respect to John, was held prior to Monday's home game against Witton Albion.

"John became involved with the club through his Uncle Bill, who was club secretary at the time. It is rumoured that John was looking after the kit at the age of 14!

"By the time I got involved with the club some 30 years later John was still there manning the gates and selling raffle tickets, which he continued to do until he finally decided it was time for him to retire.

"Even then he continued to collect for the club's lottery - and was doing so right up to the time when he was taken to hospital.

"John was a quiet unassuming man, of the old school, who worked tirelessly for the club with no thought of personal reward. He will be greatly missed by all."