Former footballer Paul Ware, who played for several local clubs, has died aged 42.
Ware had been in remission following treatment for a brain tumour last year but his health deteriorated over the weekend and he passed away on Tuesday night.
Congleton-born Ware joined Stockport County in the summer of 1995 from Stoke City and spent three seasons at Edgeley Park.
A classy midfielder, he made 54 appearances scoring four goals for County.
Hatters fans will best remember him for his stunning volley against Carlisle in March 1996 which eventually won goal of the season.
He played the first half of the 1996/97 season as County won promotion to the first division, before being loaned out to Cardiff.
Ware started his career with Stoke's youth team, securing his first professional contract in 1987 and made his debut on the final day of the 1987-88 season.
With the Potters he won the Football League Trophy in 1992 and played a key role as Stoke won promotion to the first division in 1993.
After leaving County he played for non-league Hednesford Town before joining Macclesfield Town.
He played on loan for Nuneaton Borough and ended his professional career with Rochdale before returning to Hednesford.
A county spokesman said: "Our condolences go to Paul's friends and family."
He leaves behind widow Tracey, and daughters Laura and Amy.
Rochdale and Stoke City also tweeted tributes. The Rochdale tweet read: “Our thoughts are with the family and friends of former Dale Paul Ware who sadly passed away on Tuesday evening”
