A LONG-serving secretary of Burnley FC, described as being like "a second father" to players, has died.

Albert Maddox passed away on Friday aged 85.

Mr Maddox was secretary of Burnley during the glory days in the 1960s and remained at the club until the early 1980s before retiring.

A few years later, when his successor fell ill, he returned to the club as secretary again while the club was going through a difficult period.

After his second retirement, daughter Cathy Pickup took over the post of secretary, a position she still holds.

A statement from Burnley FC said: "Burnley Football Club is saddened to learn of the death of Albert Maddox.

"Everyone at Burnley sends their sincere condolences to the Maddox family."

Peter Pike, chairman of the Clarets Trust, said: "I was very sad to learn of the sad death of Albert Maddox.

"I extend my sincere sympathy to his wife Muriel and also his daughter Cathy Pickup who is secretary of Burnley Football Club and all the family.

"Albert was a true Clarets stalwart not only doing a good job in his post as secretary but to so many of the players of his era was like a second father.

"That relationship was evident right to the end as ex-players visiting the club were always delighted to see Albert and he was always pleased to see them.

"His death at 85 is very much a sad loss to his family but also sad loss to the club being one of those figures who played such a key role at Turf Moor over so many years."

Albert leaves a wife, Murie, and two daughters.

A suite in the James Hargreaves Stand is named after him.