A FORMER Shakers player and father-of-three has been found dead.

Ron Phillips, who ran an off-licence in Walkden with his wife Patricia, previously played for Bolton Wanderers from 1966 until 1975.

The left-winger, who was born in Worsley, collected a Third Division Championship medal for his best season in 1972/73, but joined Bury two years later in a £12,000 deal.

He made 72 League appearances for the Shakers before signing for Chester in September 1977.

He retired from football following a spell with Barrow and went into the insurance business briefly before taking over the off-licence in Walkden Road.

Mr Phillips, who was also a keen golfer and a member of Dunscar Golf Club, was a popular figure in the community.

His family have put up a notice on the outside of the shop about their shock and sadness following his death.

They have closed the business for the coming week.

His widow was too upset to speak, but a family member who did not wish to be named, said: "Ronnie was a dedicated and loyal family man.

"His family was the most important thing to him and we are all shocked by this sad loss." An inquest is due to be opened this week.