St Albans City FC said a life-long supporter who died at the weekend will be "greatly missed".

Jim Bacon began supporting St Albans City back in the 1940's and following the loss of his wife, Monica, around ten years ago he filled his time as one of the small group of volunteers who carry out a multitude of vital tasks for the Club around Clarence Park.

The 87-year-old, who lived in Colney Heath, passed away on Sunday having been in poor health for most of the year.

After the 2nd World War Jim, an electrician, joined Post Office Telephones and then De Havilland in Hatfield.

It was whilst working at De Havilland that he met former City player Les Hosier.

Jim was fascinated in Les's sporting achievements - he played in City's first ever match in 1908 and was also a fine cricketer - and was delighted when our club historians uncovered details and photos regarding Les's career.

In addition to his long association to the Saints, Jim was also an Arsenal supporter.

He had a tendency to leave matches a few minutes before the final whistle, "to avoid the rush" something for which he was duly ribbed by his colleagues at the Park.

Another passion of Jim's was the Royal Military Tattoo in Edinburgh.

A statement on the clubs website said: "Jim had been in poor health for much of this year and spent time in Watford General Hospital before seeing out his final days at the Orchard Nursing Home in Camp Road."

St Albans City secretary Steve Eames paid tribute to his friend on Sunday. He said: "Jim never got over the loss of Monica but was keen to get involved at the Park when I offered him some work a few years ago.

"He kept himself to himself but his work was excellent and I, and the club, will miss him greatly.

"He sometimes went to away games on his own but also frequently travelled with other supporters and will be missed by many people."