THE club was deeply saddened to learn of the death of George McGowan, who passed away over night.

The bubbly Scot moved south to play football and ended up in North Wales many years ago - deciding to stay and make this his home.

This is how one Bangor City website described the midfielder in their Legends section:

"The growling Scot was the ball winner with courage and no little ability on the ball. George had been a promising amateur boxer in Scotland, before serving Preston, Chester and Stockport as a professional footballer before joining City in October 1965."

George had previously played 18 games at Sealand Road after leaving Preston North End in 1962, before switching to Stockport County two years later and then joining Cheshire League sides Rhyl and Bangor City.

He eventually moved into coaching and had several spells at the Racecourse working with our youth team, alongside the likes of Joey Jones.

The 65-year-old had been an engineer with BT in his normal work, but retired from them several years ago and therefore spent much more of his time at Colliers Park.

Club chairman Geoff Moss was shocked at the news.

"We are all so sad to hear of George's death, it sent shock waves around Colliers Park this morning," he said.

"He was such a popular character who had helped out with our youth team for more years than I care to remember.

"George was a vital member of set up that won the Youth Alliance title last season, he was so proud of his kids on their achievement.

"He was such an approachable man, who would turn his hand to any task to help out, often driving the minibus to away games.

"With him already suffering in recent months, the place has not been the same with him being absent for treatment.

"He was such good company and no would ever have a bad word to say about him.

"On behalf of everyone at the club, I extend our sympathies to his family and friends at this very difficult time."

Chester City have been in contact this morning and also wished to express their condolences.

A very keen golfer, George met up with some of his friends at a local club yesterday and was even talking about getting back to the Racecourse to watch the Swindon Town game.

The players will be wearing black arm bands before tomorrow's match at Histon and we will pay tribute to George prior to Tuesday evening's match against Kidderminster Harriers.

One of football's true gentlemen...