TRIBUTES have been paid to a former England schoolboys and Burnley goalkeeper who died at home.

Alan Tattersall, a former market trader, was also a keen cricket fan and a popular face at Rawtenstall Cricket Club.

He died aged 79 last Sunday following a short illness.

Alan made a number of appearances in the Clarets’ first team in the 1950s, and was regularly featured in the reserves. He also played for Preston North End, Bolton Wanderers and Blackpool FC.

A keen Clarets fan, Alan, who lived in Broadway, Helmshore, with his wife Jean, never missed a home match at Turf Moor following his retirement from the game.

Daughter Julie said her father was ‘the very best dad in the whole world’.

She said: “He was so kind and caring. He lived for his family and was so proud of everything me and my brother David achieved, and our extended family.”

Brian Payne, chairman of the cricket club in Bacup Road, knew Alan through the club for 50 years.

He said: “Alan was a loyal supporter of the club and will be sadly missed by many who come here.”

Alan was also a market trader, having sold wool at Burnley, Dewsbury and Morecambe for the last 25 years.

A Clarets spokesman said: “Alan Tattersall was a lifelong Burnley fan and a season ticket holder as well as a former player for the club.

“Our thoughts are with his family.”

Alan’s family said they would like to thank Dr Bachh and all the staff at Rawtenstall Ilex Mill health centre.

The funeral will be held on Monday at St Thomas Musbury Church, in Helmshore at 11am, followed by the burial at Rawtenstall Cemetery, and a celebration of his life at Rawtenstall Cricket Club at 12.30pm.

Anyone who knew Alan is welcome, family flowers only, and donations can be made to Rossendale Hospice.