BURY Football Club has received hundreds of messages of support for popular first team coach Billy Ayre, after it was revealed that he is suffering from cancer.

The Gigg Lane club announced Ayre's illness with "great regret".

Ayre is a well-respected figure in lower division football, having been in charge at a number of clubs such as Blackpool and Cardiff.

He joined the Shakers midway through last season to add experience to the young managerial partnership of Andy Preece and Steve Redmond.

Ayre was put in charge of first team training to help take the wight off Preece's shoulders and he was enjoying the job.

The appointment helped the team and Bury finished last season on a high and despite the financial problems are approaching the new season in confidence.

The news that Ayre is fighting cancer has put a cloud over the club.

Bury chairman Terry Robinson said: "It is with extreme regret, that Billy Ayre, the first team coach here at Gigg Lane, is bravely fighting a personal battle with cancer.

"Whilst respecting his personal wishes for privacy, Bury Football Club will be giving Billy their full support and wish him well on everyone's behalf for the greatest battle that he will face.

Fully fit

Robinson added that: "It is expected that Billy will be fit to resume his post early September."

Since the announcement, hundreds of people have left messages at the club's website offering their support.

Meanwhile there is no more news on the transfer front though speculation continues over a possible return move to Gigg for Ian Lawson.

The BEN exclusively spoke to the striker who revealed that he would love to come to Bury if he cannot win a place in Andy Kilner's Stockport team.

Shakers chairman Terry Robinson is keeping close tabs on developments.