THE Bishop of Blackburn led church tributes as blue and white flowers were placed in the Cathedral in memory of Uncle Jack.

The Rt Rev Alan Chesters said: "His contribution to the life of the town in which he grew up and where, through his hard work, he found prosperity, has been tremendous.

"Not only has he done much to revive the fortunes of Blackburn Rovers, which has brought pleasure to the town, but many others have cause to be grateful for his generosity towards their projects."

A prayer candle has been lit in Blackburn Cathedral next to a display of blue and white flowers as a place where Jack's life can be remembered by his many fans.The Dean of Blackburn, the Very Rev David Frayne, said: "We mourn the loss of one of Blackburn's greatest sons. His life honoured the town and the Cathedral."

The Rovers chaplain, the Rev Ken Howles, offered help and comfort to Rovers' staff and supporters and said he would be at the club for the next few days.

Mr Howles, whose church St Bartholomew's stands in the shadow of the stadium, said: "The people of Ewood will be remembering Jack Walker's family in their prayers."

COUNCILLOR Hussain Akhtar today offered his condolences to Jack Walker's family on behalf of the Asian community.

"There are a lot of Asian youngsters in Blackburn who looked up to what Mr Walker had achieved and who love sport." said the Shear Brow ward councillor. "We prayed for him when he first became ill and our thoughts are with his family.