Former Linnets favourite John Imrie dies at 64

The club is greatly distressed to have heard of the death of former Runcorn AFC player John Imrie at the age of 64.

John was very gifted and skillful midfield player, who represented the Linnets in the 1986 FA Trophy final at Wembley, which brought a 1-0 defeat to Altrincham.

He also featured in many of Runcorn's other successes around that period, when we were one of the major forces in the top flight of non-league football in England.

Affectionately known as "Jinxie", John was quiet, unassuming and very well liked.

After the match, he'd love to chat with his team-mates, mingle with fans while enjoying his favourite tipple of Guinness with a touch of blackcurrant.

John joined Runcorn from Buxton, where he had played as a striker.

Manager John Williams successfully converted him into a centre fielder, although he retained an eye for goal.

John played for Altrincham, Rhyl (on loan) and Northwich Victoria before moving to Macclesfield Town.

Returning to Runcorn, his second spell as a player ended with a move to Mossley in February 1992.

After stints with Droylsden and Glossop North End, he then played for Altrincham and after a brief loan spell at Rhyl, he signed for Northwich Victoria in 1987 before moving to Macclesfield Town the following year.

He joined Mossley as new manager Ged Coyne's first signing when he signed from Runcorn in February 1992.

John moved on to Droylsden in November 1992 and then Glossop North End in 1994.

He was second in command to his former Canal Street team-mate Mark Carter at Runcorn from 1999-2000.

The pair took the Northern Premier League side, which finished ninth in the NPL that season, to the quarter-finals of the FA Trophy.

Following wins over Sollihull Borough, Northwich Victoria, Tamworth, Hyde United (after a replay) and Heybridge Swifts, Linnets were drawn away to Telford United. They turned in a very respectable performance when losing 2-0 at the Bucks Head.

John later served Stockport-based Woodley Sports as manager.

Our thoughts are with John and condolences with his friends and family at this very sad and difficult time.