FORMER York City midfielder George Patterson has passed away.

A half-back by trade, George made 57 appearances for the Minstermen between 1957 and 1960, scoring four goals.

Born in Sunderland on September 15, 1934, he started his career as a centre-forward for Hull City before turning out for non-league sides King's Lynn and South Shields.

After being signed for York by Sam Bartram, George made a name for himself in the League at right-half, from where he was ever willing to get forward.

His first goal for the club came in the 4-0 defeat of Tranmere Rovers at Bootham Crescent during City's first-ever promotion-winning campaign of 1958/59.

George moved on to Hartlepools United - as Hartlepool were known until 1968 - in June 1960 before heading to Goole Town in 1964.

After his football career, George worked for the electricity board as it allowed him to spend time outside, which he loved to do.

He passed away peacefully on May 25, 2021 in York Hospital aged 86.

"George was the beloved husband of 60 years to Dorothy, a much-loved father of Michael, Elaine and Andrew, a dear father-in-law of Beverley, Helen and Stuart, a devoted grandad to Amy, Sophie, Emily, Georgia and Simon, a special brother-in-law to John and Pat, an uncle to Stephen, Paul and Jennifer, and a good friend to many," his family said.

His funeral service is to be held at QYork in Priory Street on Monday June 14 at 11am. All are welcome.

The family request only family flowers but donations to the Alzheimer's Society in George's name via Rowley & Sons website are welcomed.