TWO Wirral amateur football clubs are mourning the death of a stalwart who played for them both.

Father-of-two John 'Ando' Anderson died tragically the week before last. He was 42.

He was a stalwart, in the early '80s, of South Wirral Soccer League club Mallaby's success. Club officials, followers and players past and present offer their sincere condolences to John's dependants and relatives.

Club secretary Tommy Kenny, in a touching tribute, said John was a popular player who inspired those around him. "Sleep well big fella," he added.

John, who lived in Wallasey, also played for Black Horse Vics, Oyster Catcher and Somerville in the Wallasey & District Sunday Soccer League. "He will be sorely missed by all those who knew him; he was a great servant to the clubs he played for," said a League spokesman. "Our deepest sympathy goes to John's family at this sad time."

The funeral service takes place tomorrow week (Thursday, November 27) at St Hilary's Church, Wallasey (12noon), followed by cremation at Landican at 1pm.

An inquest was opened and adjourned to a date to be fixed.

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