'The first club shirt he wore was a Chesterfield one' - tributes paid to World Cup winner Jack Charlton after he dies, aged 85

Tributes have been paid to England World Cup winner Jack Charlton who has passed away, aged 85.

The legendary defender died on Friday night surrounded by his family in Northumberland.

The Leeds United great had been diagnosed with lymphoma in the last year and also had dementia.

Charlton was a ‘one club man’ with a record 773 appearances for the Whites in 23 years at the club.

Jack Charlton held a fundraising evening for Chesterfield FC at the Winding Wheel in December 2001. Here he is pictured on the night with Chesterfield players Rob Edwards, Steve Blatherwick, Ian Breckin and organiser Mark Ashmore.

‘Big Jack’ won 35 caps for England and was part of 1966 World Cup winning squad.

He went into management at Middlesbrough, Sheffield Wednesday, Newcastle United and the Republic of Ireland.

Described as a “true giant of English football”, Charlton had some connections with the Spireites.

Chesterfield FC said: “We are saddened to learn of the passing of England World Cup legend Jack Charlton at the age of 85. Jack had an affinity for the Spireites as he had two uncles who played for the club - George Milburn and Stan Milburn - and had fond memories of time spent in Chesterfield.

“Tommy, younger brother of Jack and Sir Bobby, was a Senior Spireites guest in January and spoke warmly of the club. We send our sincere condolences to Jack’s family and friends.”

Spireites historian, Stuart Basson, said Jack and his brother Bobby would come and stay with George and there is a story that they would all go to Saltergate to have a kick around on the pitch.

“Apparently the first club shirt Jack ever wore was a CFC one, on one of these visits,” Stuart told the DT. “When CFSS were running the club in 2001 he came to Chesterfield to do a fundraiser, a Sportsman's Dinner at the Winding Wheel, which raised around £7,000. He gave his services free on the night.”

In a statement, Charlton’s family said: “We cannot express how proud we are of the extraordinary life he led and the pleasure he brought to so many people in different countries and from all walks of life.

“He was a thoroughly honest, kind, funny and genuine man who always had time for people.

“His loss will leave a huge hole in all our lives but we are thankful for a lifetime of happy memories.”