FORMER York City footballer Bobby Bainbridge has died at the age of 90.

York-born centre-forward Bobby made four league appearances for the Minster-men between 1953 and 1956.

He was highly regarded as a youngster, playing in the Cliftonville Under-18 side which won the 1948 National Sporting Record Trophy.

Bobby top scored with York reserves and earned a part-time contract with the first team in November 1953, making his first-team debut at the end of the 1953/54 season.

He scored in victory over Linfield during a 1955 tour of Ireland, and even attracted interest from West Ham United, but "his dad wouldn't let him move to London" grandson Dan Adams explained.

When he left York, Bobby went on to spend two seasons at Frickley Colliery, one at Denaby United, and five at Selby Town.

After playing, Bobby ran the Chapelfields and Poppleton youth clubs, as well as the English Martyrs school team on a voluntary basis for many years.

Bobby also refereed for York & District - a role which meant he gave then 11-year-old grandson Dan his first yellow card.

"York was very lucky to have someone so passionate and dedicated to sport, and we were the luckiest school," English Martyrs said.

Bobby's funeral is at 10.20am at York crematorium on November 18.

"We would love to see any old friends who want to pay respects," his family said.