Tributes have been paid to Don Ainsworth, a lifelong fan and director of Macclesfield Town FC, who has died aged 82.

The grandfather of three from Higher Hurdsfield was a regular at the Moss Rose and served on the board for 30 years.

He was involved with the Silkmen during a golden era which included the famous league and cup double of the 1969-70 season. Don could be found in his usual spot on the London Road terrace up until his recent kidney illness.

He died in hospital on December 6 surrounded by his family including his wife of 58 years Lorna, sons Chris and Jeremy and daughter Carole.

Born and bred in the town Don went to the King’s School before joining the RAF for his national service.

He forged a successful 38-year career working for the Co-operative Insurance Society before retiring aged 53.

Don discovered a love of golf and was a member of Macclesfield Golf Club for almost 30 years.

But his real love was football and his joint passion for Macclesfield Town and Manchester City. Don’s son Chris said: “Dad started watching Macclesfield when he was a lad and saw countless games.

“He had many friends at the club so it was a natural progression for him to get involved as a director.

“Dad’s most memorable period included town’s visit to Fulham in the FA Cup in 1968 and the trip to Wembley in 1970, when we won three trophies in a week.

“After stepping down as director in the Eighties dad stayed in touch with many of the former managers and players, and their families.”

Don involved his sons Chris and Jeremy in his hobby which saw them travel far and wide.

As a close friend of then chairman Peter Swales, Don and the lads were invited to travel with the team on the UEFA Cup 1978 game against AC Milan in Italy.

Chris said: “It was great that dad was still with us to see City win the title last season. It was a shame that he also watched Macclesfield drop out of the football league. But that’s football and he loved every part of it.

“Dad was a lovely man, a true family man who was adored by his family. We will all miss him but treasure many, many happy memories.”

Don’s funeral took place yesterday (Tues) at Langley Methodist Church.