Bolton Wanderers were saddened to hear of the death of former player Charlie Cooper aged 78.
Charlie passed away over the weekend at his home in Farnworth after suffering a stroke a number of months ago, our sincere condolences to his wife Norma and two sons Alec and Charles at this very sad time.
Charlie's former colleagues from the club had been visiting over these past few months to help his recovery and were pleased Charlie had come home recently.
Charlie signed for Wanderers after being spotted playing for a local Boys Federation team Whittaker's.
Farnworth born and bred, he was part of a strong group of boys who were from Farnworth and who joined the club in the late 50s, following their hero Tommy Banks.
Noteably, Dave Hatton, Roy Greaves, Ernie Phythian, Carl Davenport and Alan Ball were part of the group but slipped the net and went on to win the World Cup with England in 1966.
Cooper made his debut against Sheffield Wednesday at Hillsbrough 29th October 1960 at left full back in front of 25,708.
Charlie made 90 appearances for Wanderers, with his last game being April 19th 1969 away at Blackburn Rovers.
On leaving Wanderers, Charlie joined Barrow Football Club on his retirement from football and then went on to join the Police Force and served for 30 years.