ECCLESHILL United have paid tribute after a club stalwart passed away.

Peter Smith was a fan of the Eagles for around 50 years, and later took on roles such as match secretary and club ambassador.

In a statement, the club wrote: "It is with much sadness that Eccleshill United Football Club have learned of the passing of one of their longest serving supporters, Peter Smith, after a long illness.

"Peter started watching Eccleshill United when working alongside the then chairman Lewis Dixon at International Harvesters in the 1970s.

"He then became a committee member and match secretary. During this time he had a lot of input into the building of a new stand and club house and informed us that he lost lots of sleep during this time.

"For all his efforts and in appreciation of all his hard work over the years, he was given life membership of the club 20 years ago. A special presentation night was held in his honour a few years later.

"Peter was given the title of club ambassador by the chairman and owners of the club, of which he was extremely proud.

"Over the years he also travelled thousands of miles to away matches watching his beloved club.

"He will be sadly missed by all his friends at Eccleshill United. We would also like to send our condolences to his wife Jean and his family."